By Ayomide Otitoju
Celebrated American Christian worship leader, singer, and songwriter Ron Kenoly has died at the age of 81. His longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, confirmed the news in a statement on Kenoly’s official Instagram page, revealing that he passed away on February 3, 2026. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Miranda, who worked with Kenoly for over 20 years, described him as both a mentor and a spiritual father, highlighting his dedication to worship leadership rather than performance.
“This morning, Feb. 3, 2026, we said goodbye to Dr. Ron Kenoly,” Miranda wrote. “He was never an artist, never an entertainer. He was a worship leader. A worship leader’s calling is not to perform songs, but to lead people into true worship in the presence of the King of Kings, Jesus Christ.”
He added that Kenoly’s philosophy extended beyond the stage, emphasizing integrity, humility, and a life rooted in obedience and reverence for God. “The worship he lived is now the worship he beholds,” Miranda said.
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly later moved to Hollywood, California, and served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1968, performing with the band Mellow Fellows during his service.
After his military tenure, Kenoly pursued a full-time music ministry in Los Angeles, becoming one of the most influential voices in contemporary Christian worship music. He rose to global prominence with his 1992 album Lift Him Up, which became the fastest-selling worship album of its time, cementing his legacy in Christian music worldwide.
