American gospel singer Ron Kenoly was remembered in a service in celebration of his life on Friday, February 20, 2026 at Jubilee Church in Orlando, Florida, where the musician served as worship pastor and music director for a long time.

The artiste and worship leader grew to wide recognition in Jamaica during the mid-to-late 90s.

He famously covered Winner Man (as Winna, Mon), written by Jamaican gospel singer Lester Lewis. His version was released in 1996 on the album Welcome Home. It was a big part of Ron Kenoly’s live show.

He is also credited with popularising choruses such as Ancient of Days.

Kenoly died on February 3 in Windermere, Florida, at age 81.

The Kansas-born artiste performed several times in Jamaica including at the 2002 Fun In The Son show in Ocho Rios, St Ann. That event was promoted by Tommy Cowan and his wife Carlene Davis who were close friends with Kenoly.

Davis completed a course in Praise and Worship at the Ron Kenoly Academy of Praise in Orlando, Florida.

She told the Jamaica Observer that his reggae-flavoured take on Winner Man was pivotal for reggae-gospel.

“It was a surprise and a treat for Jamaican gospel, we all embraced the idea and loved his version of the song. It is really a compliment to hear Dr Ron’s version and it has most definitely taken our sound to a wider audience,” said Davis.

Kenoly, who did shows in over 120 countries, last performed in Jamaica at the Embrace The Promise concert in Westmoreland in 2023.

His music is said to have revolutionised contemporary gospel by blending traditional hymns with upbeat praise rhythms. His recordings and live worship sessions inspired a new generation of worship leaders and artistes globally, while shaping congregational worship.

Churches in Ghana, Nigeria, and across Africa embraced his style, contributing to the growth of vibrant praise and worship movements.

He is survived by his wife Diana, three sons and grandchildren.

— Howard Campbell

Ron Kenoly.