Gospel Music Legend, Ron Kenoly Dies at 81

Ron Kenoly (Instagram @drronkenoly)

JAKARTA - The world of music is shrouded in sadness after the legendary gospel singer and songwriter from the United States, Ron Kenoly, was declared dead on Tuesday, February 3, local time.

Kenoly breathed his last at the age of 81, leaving behind a musical legacy that has reached various parts of the world for almost five decades.

Music Director Bruno Miranda confirmed the sad news through an official statement on the legend's Instagram account. In his statement, Miranda expressed his deep loss over the departure of a figure who was not only a musician, but a spiritual mentor for many people.

"This morning, February 3, 2026, we say goodbye to Dr. Ron Kenoly," Miranda wrote.

"For more than 20 years, I have had the honor of walking side by side with him in ministry around the world, not only as his musical director, but as a son, a student, and a witness of a life marked by faithfulness," he continued.

Two days before his death, on Sunday, February 1, Ron Kenoly had uploaded his last message on his social media. He reflected on his 48 years of traveling in the world of music ministry and expressed his appreciation to the people who helped him reach 123 countries.

"I'm 81 years old and in my 48th year of service. These are some of those who have helped me reach more than 123 countries around the world over the past 20 years," Kenoly wrote.

Kenoly's passing triggered a wave of condolences from prominent religious figures and gospel musicians such as Don Moen, Nathaniel Bassey, to Bishop Wale Oke from Nigeria.

"Although our hearts are heavy, we surrender to God's perfect will, comforted by the belief that a life spent in faithful service will never be wasted," he said.

Born in Coffeyville, Kansas, Ron Kenoly began his musical career in a local church before going into the military and secular music.

In 1985, he decided to focus entirely on worship services.

His album "Lift Him Up" (1992) made history by receiving a Gold certification after selling more than 500,000 copies.

Until the end of his life, Kenoly was actively teaching at two universities in the US and running a mentoring program for praise leaders around the world.