In a heartbreaking incident, three members of the renowned family gospel group, The Nelons, were killed in a plane crash on Friday afternoon. The crash, which occurred near Recluse, Wyoming, claimed the lives of Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler. The family was en route to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska, a much-anticipated event in the gospel music community
A Legacy of Gospel Music
The Nelons, a Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet, have been a cornerstone of the gospel music scene for decades. Founded by Rex Nelon in 1977, the group has seen multiple generations of the Nelon family contribute to its success. Kelly Nelon Clark, a member since the group’s inception, was joined by her husband Jason and their daughters, Amber and Autumn, in continuing the family’s musical legacy.
The Fatal Flight
The ill-fated flight was a Pilatus PC-12/47E, a single-engine turboprop aircraft. According to preliminary reports from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the plane experienced an autopilot issue before it crashed into the rugged terrain of northeastern Wyoming. Along with the Nelon family members, the crash also claimed the lives of Amber’s husband, Nathan Kistler, their assistant Melodi Hodges, and the pilot Larry Haynie and his wife, Melissa
A Community in Mourning
The news of the crash has sent shockwaves through the gospel music community and beyond. Autumn Nelon Streetman, the only surviving member of the immediate family who was not on the plane, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support. “We appreciate your continued prayers, love, and support as we navigate the coming days,” she said in a statement.
The Gaither Management Group, which represents The Nelons, also released a statement expressing their deep sorrow. “One of the best-loved gospel music families in America, The Nelons were involved in a tragic, fatal plane crash on Friday afternoon on their way to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska,” the statement read. “We are heartbroken and ask for prayers for the families affected by this tragedy”.
Remembering the Nelons
Kelly Nelon Clark was a beloved figure in the gospel music world, known for her powerful voice and heartfelt performances. Her husband, Jason Clark, was not only a talented musician but also a dedicated family man who played a significant role in the group’s management. Amber Nelon Kistler, their daughter, was a rising star in the gospel music scene, known for her vibrant personality and musical talent.
The Nelons’ music has touched countless lives, and their legacy will undoubtedly continue through their recordings and the memories of their performances. Fans and fellow musicians have taken to social media to share their condolences and memories of the group, highlighting the profound impact they had on the gospel music community.
Moving Forward
As the investigation into the crash continues, the gospel music community is rallying around the surviving members of the Nelon family. Autumn Nelon Streetman and her husband, Jamie, are expected to return home to begin the difficult process of grieving and rebuilding. The Gaither Homecoming Cruise, which the Nelons were set to join, will undoubtedly be a somber event as attendees remember the lives lost and the music that brought them together.
In this time of immense sorrow, the legacy of The Nelons serves as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together, even in the face of tragedy. Their contributions to gospel music will be remembered and cherished by fans around the world.
