Nigerian celebrities Dunsin Oyekan, Nathaniel Bassey, Wale Oke, Ada Ehi, and others have joined in mourning American gospel singer Ron Kenoly, who died on Tuesday at the age of 81.
Nathaniel Bassey wrote, “Dr RON KENOLY, Crosses to yonder side. Thank you for inspiring generations of psalmists like me. I grew up on these songs. And today others are growing up on ours. Thank you Sir.”
Dunsin Oyekan posted a video of Kenoly, saying, “Honoring a General! Rest in Peace Dr Ron Kenoly. An end of an era… You are now singing Forever in His Presence….”
Author Wale Oke also wrote, “Farewell to a True Worshipper Ron Kenoly
“A man of humility, a vessel of grace, and a true worshipper who gave his life to the glory of God.
Ron Kenoly walked in profound spiritual depth, filled with the Holy Spirit, sound in the Scriptures, and deeply moving in both word and song.
“He carried the presence of God wherever he ministered, lifting hearts and nations into the atmosphere of worship and reverence. It was our privilege to host him on multiple occasions in Nigeria and internationally, where he poured out his heart in service to God and the Body of Christ.
“Though our hearts are heavy, we submit to the perfect will of God, taking comfort in the blessed assurance that a life spent in faithful devotion is never in vain. His Spirit-filled songs, his legacy, and his impact will continue to speak across generations.”
Ada Ehi added, “Dr Ron Kenoly now saint triumphant. Thank you eternally sir, you blessed many generations. Your memory is blessed.”
Moses Bliss also reflected, “Dr. Ron Kenoly now with the Lord Jesus in glory. What a life! Your legacy is etched not only in songs, but in lives, altars, and nations transformed. We honor you deeply.”
Sunmisola Agbebi, Yinka Okeleye, Ebuka Songs, Stephen Ogah, Ope Ajayi and Tim Godfrey also shared tributes on social media.
Kenoly was a global figure in contemporary worship music, rising to prominence in the 1990s with live albums such as Lift Him Up, which became one of the fastest-selling praise albums of the time. His 1997 album Welcome Home won a Gospel Music Association Dove Award for “Praise and Worship Album.”
Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly earned a music degree from Alameda College, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctorate of Ministry in sacred music. Before fully dedicating himself to Christian worship, he served in the United States Air Force and was involved in band projects.
Kenoly’s songs have inspired generations of worshippers and gospel artists worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy in the global Christian music community.
