Renowned American gospel singer, songwriter and worship leader Dr Ron Kenoly has died at the age of 81.

His passing was confirmed on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, by his longtime music director, Bruno Miranda, in a statement shared on Kenoly’s official Instagram page.

“This morning, Feb. 3, 2026, we said goodbye to Dr. Ron Kenoly,” Miranda wrote.

Paying tribute, he described Kenoly as a devoted minister who never viewed himself as a performer.

“Doc was very intentional about one thing: he was never an artist, never an entertainer. He was a worship leader,” Miranda stated. “A worship leader’s calling is not to perform songs, but to lead people into true worship in the presence of a King; the King of Kings, Jesus Christ.”

Kenoly was widely respected within global Christian music circles for his energetic praise and worship style and for a ministry that spanned more than four decades.

Just days before his death, on Sunday, February 1, he acknowledged individuals who had supported his journey over the years. He noted that their contributions helped expand his ministry’s reach to more than 123 nations within 20 years.

Kenoly’s music and leadership influenced churches and worship communities worldwide, earning him recognition as one of gospel music’s enduring figures.