The global Christian community is in mourning following the death of legendary American worship leader and pastor, Ron Kenoly, who passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the age of 81.
His death has triggered a massive outpouring of tributes from across the world, particularly in Nigeria, where his high-energy praise style profoundly shaped modern church music.
Kenoly, born on December 6, 1944, rose to international stardom in the early 1990s. His 1992 breakthrough album, Lift Him Up, became the fastest-selling worship project of its time, introducing global anthems such as “Ancient of Days,” “Jesus Is Alive,” and “Majesty.”
Over a career spanning six decades, he released more than 20 albums, blending gospel and contemporary worship with a jubilant, choir-led sound that bridged cultural divides.
In Nigeria, prominent figures including Nathaniel Bassey and PFN President Bishop Wale Oke have expressed deep grief.
Bassey described Kenoly as a generational inspiration whose songs provided the soundtrack for many contemporary psalmists’ growth.
Beyond his musical legacy, Kenoly was a respected educator and minister, holding a Doctorate in Sacred Music and serving as a long-time leader at the Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California.
His passing marks the end of an era for the pioneers of the Integrity Music age, but his legacy survives in the thousands of worship teams worldwide who continue to sing his enduring classics.
