Tragedy Strikes the Gospel Music World: Three Nelon Family Members Lost in Wyoming Plane Crash
A devastating plane crash in northeastern Wyoming has claimed the lives of three key members of the renowned gospel family group, The Nelons, leaving the gospel music community and fans across the nation in mourning. The victims—Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler—were en route to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise in Alaska when the accident occurred, according to a statement from Gaither Management Group.
The Fateful Journey
The ill-fated flight, operated by a Pilatus PC-12/47E turboprop, was carrying a total of seven people when disaster struck near the small community of Recluse, Wyoming. In addition to the three Nelons—Kelly, Jason, and Amber—the aircraft also carried Amber’s husband Nathan Kistler, assistant Melodi Hodges, pilot Larry Haynie, and his wife Melissa. All seven passengers tragically lost their lives in the accident.
The group had been eagerly headed to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise, a much-anticipated event for gospel music fans and artists alike. A video posted on Instagram by the group prior to the crash captured the hopeful spirit of the journey, with Jason Clark saying, “Gaither Homecoming Alaskan cruise. We are on our way,” as the camera panned over the smiling faces of the travelers during a stopover in Nebraska.
What Went Wrong?
Preliminary investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicate that the crash may have been triggered by an autopilot malfunction. According to reports, the pilot had alerted air traffic control to an issue with the plane’s autopilot system shortly before the aircraft went down. Fragments of the aircraft were discovered scattered across a wide debris field, suggesting that the malfunction could have led to a loss of control. With the wreckage located in a remote area, NTSB investigators are only beginning their in-depth examination of the site, and further details about the exact cause of the accident remain forthcoming.
A Family’s Legacy and a Community in Mourning
The Nelons have long been a pillar of Southern Gospel music. Established in 1977 as The Rex Nelon Singers, the group evolved over the years into The Nelons, celebrated for hit songs such as “Thanks,” “Come Morning,” and “We Shall Wear a Robe and Crown.” With a career spanning decades, they recorded more than 35 albums and produced over 20 Top 5 Southern Gospel radio singles. Their contributions to the genre were recognized in 2016 when they were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. The Nelons’ work earned them numerous accolades, including a Grammy nomination in 1991 and 35 Dove Award nominations—the most recent being in 2021 for the song “If God Pulled Back the Curtain.”
The loss of Kelly, Jason, and Amber not only marks a profound personal tragedy for the family but also represents a significant blow to the gospel music community. Jackie Patillo, president of the Gospel Music Association (GMA), expressed her deep sorrow in a statement: “Our deepest condolences and prayers are with Autumn and the rest of the Nelon family. They will be forever cherished and remembered in the GMA Hall of Fame.” Among those left behind is Autumn Nelon Streetman, another member of the Nelon family and group, who has since expressed her gratitude for the flood of support and prayers offered during this difficult time. “We appreciate your continued prayers, love, and support as we navigate the coming days,” she said, referring to the pain felt by both her immediate family and Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark.
Honoring the Lives Lost
The impact of this tragedy extends beyond the immediate family. Pilot Larry Haynie, who also served as chairman of the Georgia Department of Corrections Board, was well-respected both for his work in aviation and his contributions to his community. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp offered heartfelt condolences, describing Haynie and his wife Melissa as “devoted to one another, to their grandchildren and family, and staunch supporters of the GDC family.” Governor Kemp’s message echoed the sentiments of many, calling for prayers not only for the families of the victims but also for all those in the gospel music community who have lost dear friends in this heartbreaking accident.
The Road Ahead
As investigators continue to piece together the events that led to this catastrophic incident, the loss of these seven lives serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks of air travel—especially in smaller, regional aircraft where technical issues can have fatal consequences. The gospel music community, already reeling from the loss of beloved figures, now faces the challenge of honoring a legacy that spans generations.
Efforts to support the grieving family and preserve the memory of The Nelons are underway, with fans and fellow musicians alike rallying around Autumn and the rest of the family. In a time when words seem insufficient, the legacy of Kelly, Jason, and Amber Nelon will continue to live on through their music and the indelible mark they left on the world of Southern Gospel.
A Call for Unity and Healing
In the wake of this tragedy, the collective response has been one of unity and support. As the investigation unfolds and the community begins to heal, there is a renewed call for safety and accountability in the field of regional aviation. More importantly, however, the focus remains on celebrating the lives and contributions of those who were lost.
For the gospel music community and all those touched by the story of The Nelons, this is a time to come together in prayer, remembrance, and a commitment to carrying forward the message of hope and faith that these artists embodied.
In Memoriam
The loss of Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, and Amber Nelon Kistler is a profound reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of music to unite us in grief and healing. As we remember these cherished members of The Nelons and honor their legacy, let us also extend our heartfelt prayers and support to their family, friends, and the entire gospel music community. May their memories inspire us to seek safety, embrace unity, and continue sharing the uplifting power of their timeless music.
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