Dr. Ron Kenoly, a towering figure in contemporary praise and worship music whose songs helped shape the sound and theology of modern church worship, has died. He passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, at the age of 81, according to statements shared by Integrity Music and fellow Christian leaders.
Born in 1944, Kenoly rose to prominence during a pivotal era in global worship, when congregational music began shifting toward expressive, Scripture-centered praise. His leadership at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California, and his long partnership with Integrity Music positioned him as both a spiritual guide and a global voice for worship renewal.
Integrity Music described Kenoly as “more than a powerful worship leader,” calling him a shepherd, teacher, and man of deep integrity. “Through his music, leadership, and discipleship, Ron taught the Church how to sing with faith, freedom, and conviction,” the organization said in a tribute shared online.
Kenoly’s influence extended far beyond recorded music. Worship leaders across continents credit his songs and teachings with helping congregations engage more deeply in communal praise. His work became especially influential in Africa, Europe, and parts of Asia, where his music was widely adopted in churches and worship conferences.
Tributes poured in from Christian leaders and artists around the world. Nigerian gospel minister Buchi wrote that through Kenoly’s voice, “many found words when theirs failed,” while Dr. Paul Enenche of Dunamis International Gospel Centre described him as “God’s General” who had “finished his assignment and received his crown.” Gospel platform Engage Gospel noted that Kenoly’s songs “brought millions into the presence of God,” underscoring his far-reaching spiritual impact.
Music historians and worship scholars often point to Kenoly’s ministry as part of a broader movement that reshaped evangelical worship in the late 20th century—emphasizing biblical lyrics, joyful expression, and congregational participation. His approach influenced not only music style but also worship leadership training, an area where he mentored countless pastors and musicians.
Kenoly is remembered not just for his musical legacy, but for the consistency of his character. Friends and colleagues frequently described him as humble, joyful, and deeply committed to serving the Church rather than personal fame.
He is survived by his family and a global community of spiritual sons and daughters. As one tribute aptly put it, though Dr. Ron Kenoly has taken his rest, “his sound of worship still lives on—in churches, in homes, and in hearts around the world.”
