The Nelon family, a prominent name in the gospel music scene, faces an unspeakable tragedy following a plane crash that took the lives of three of its members. The tragic incident unfolded on Friday, July 26, 2024, when Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler were en route to perform on a cruise ship in Alaska.
All seven individuals on board the aircraft perished, including Amber's husband Nathan Kistler and their assistant Melodi Hodges, along with the plane's pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife, Melissa. The plane crashed north of Gillette, Wyoming around 1 PM local time, leading to a wildfire in the area, as reported by local officials.
Gaither Music Group, the Nelons' management, confirmed the news stating, "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 family was well-known for their contributions to gospel music, having been inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016 and nominated for multiple Grammy Awards over their decades-long career, during which they released more than 35 albums and secured over 20 Top 5 Southern Gospel radio singles.
Preliminary investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) pointed to an autopilot issue as a potential cause of the crash. NTSB spokesperson Keith Holloway indicated that they expected to gather more information at the crash site, with a preliminary report anticipated within 30 days. A full final report, which will detail the ultimate cause of the crash, could take up to two years to complete.
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the youngest member of the Nelons, who was not aboard the flight, expressed her grief on social media, thanking fans for their support. She mentioned, "As many of you have heard by now, my father and mother, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister, Amber and brother-in-law, Nathan, as well as our dear friends Melodi Hodges, Larry and Melissa Haynie were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday." Autumn noted the support she has received as she navigates this difficult time, including prayers for her and her soon-to-arrive baby boy.
The Nelons entered the national spotlight in the 1970s under the guidance of Kelly's father, Rex Nelon, who initially formed the group as a family endeavor and established their reputation through heartfelt performances and stirring compositions. Among their noteworthy hits are songs like "I Shall Not Be Moved," "Come Morning," and "We Shall Wear a Robe and Crown."
The unexpected news of the family's death has led to an outpouring of condolences from fans and fellow gospel musicians alike. Jackie Patillo, president of the Gospel Music Association, remarked, "The GMA and our entire music community is grieving over the tragic loss of Jason, Kelly, and Amber as well as the others involved in the tragic plane crash. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with Autumn and the rest of the Nelon family." Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia, where Haynie had served as chairman of the Georgia Department of Corrections Board, expressed his sorrow, affirming the profound impact the Haynie family had on their community.
In recent years, the Nelons have continued to captivate audiences with their music, maintaining a dedication to their craft that resonates with many fans spiritually and emotionally. Their legacy in gospel music, marked by numerous Dove Awards and memorable performances, solidifies their place in the hearts of many across the nation.
As this beautiful family's story continues to unfold, people everywhere are coming together to support the surviving members and honor the memory of those lost too soon.