Renowned US gospel music minister Dr Ron Kenoly has passed away, sparking deep emotions across the global Christian and music communities.
His death was confirmed in the early hours of Tuesday, 3 February 2026. The news was first shared privately with close friends before becoming public.
One of those informed was Nigerian gospel artiste and academic, Panam Percy Paul, who described Kenoly as a brother, friend, and spiritual companion of three decades.
According to Paul, the family reached out personally to break the news, a gesture that reflected the deep bond he shared with the late worship leader.
He recalled being momentarily numb as the emotional phone call came through, with the family member struggling to speak through tears.
He wrote: “My mind suddenly travelled back to 1995 when we first met. I became numb for some seconds before responding to the family member who called.
“She was trying to talk between tears. My heart skipped. I became emotional as she said… ‘We needed to tell you first before it goes public, we knew how close you were’”.
Reflecting on their first meeting in 1995, Paul described Dr Kenoly as a man whose love for Jesus Christ defined every part of his life.
Despite global fame and numerous accolades, Kenoly was known for his humility, warmth, and accessibility.
“He remained humble and reachable,” Paul noted, adding that Kenoly was always teachable and celebrated creativity with a “childish smile and huge laughter.”
Dr Ron Kenoly was widely celebrated for his powerful, spirit-filled worship songs and his distinct singing voice.
His album “LIFT HIM UP” is often described as a landmark project that reshaped gospel music ministry and worship culture across churches worldwide.
In his emotional tribute, Paul thanked God for their 30-year friendship, the lessons they shared, and the experiences that shaped their ministry journeys together. He also vowed to keep Kenoly’s music alive by continuing to sing his songs.
“I’ll keep singing your songs. I miss you, I’ll always love you,” he wrote, ending with a heartfelt farewell: “Good Night my Brother.”
Dr Ron Kenoly’s legacy as a passionate worshipper, mentor, and servant of God is expected to endure through his music and the countless lives he touched.
