The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has paid a glowing tribute to legendary American gospel singer, Ron Kenoly, who died at 81.

The death of the singer was confirmed on Tuesday, triggering an outpouring of tributes from gospel music communities, ministers and Christian faithful around the world.

The PFN President, Bishop Francis Wale-Oke, eulogised life and times of the late worship leader in a post on his Facebook page, describing him as “a true worshipper who gave his life to the glory of God.”

He wrote, “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.”

The PFN president commiserated with the family of the late singer, praying that God comfort, strengthen, and abide with them at this critical time.

He added, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord… that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. Revelation 14:13’’.

Born on December 6, 1944, in Coffeyville, Kansas, the late Kenoly rose to international prominence in the late 20th century.

He was globally celebrated for his powerful live worship recordings and his influential role in shaping contemporary praise and worship music.

His ministry and music resonated far beyond the United States, reaching churches across Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas, where his songs became an integral part of modern worship services.

Over the course of his career, Mr Kenoly released more than 20 albums, including Jesus Is Alive (1991), Ancient of Days (1992), God Is Able (1994), Sing Out With One Voice (1995).

Others include Welcome Home (1996), and High Places: The Best of Ron Kenoly, blending gospel, praise and contemporary Christian music in a way that influenced generations of worship leaders.

The late Kenoly was acclaimed for his energetic, choir-backed performances and congregational worship style that inspire and lift his audience.

He was also a respected pastor and worship leader, serving prominently at Jubilee Christian Centre in San Jose, California, featuring at international worship conferences, seminars and church events 

(NAN)