Three members of The Nelons, a Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet, along with four others, perished in a Wyoming plane crash on July 26, 2024. The fatalities include Kelly Nelon Clark, her spouse Jason Clark, their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, Kistler’s husband Nathan, and their aide Melodi Hodges. Pilot Larry Haynie and his wife, Melissa, also died in the incident.
The gospel group from Atlanta, Georgia, was en route to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise in Alaska when their Pilatus PC-12/47E plane crashed near Gillette, Wyoming. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) stated that the crash occurred around 1 p.m. local time, sparking a wildfire that local fire departments worked to control.
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the only surviving member of the group who was not onboard, expressed gratitude for the support extended to her and her family. She offered thanks for the prayers for her, her husband Jamie, their unborn child, and Jason Clark’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark.
Georgia’s Governor Brian Kemp conveyed his sympathies, noting the loss of Larry Haynie, who served as the chairman of the Georgia Board of Corrections. Kemp asked for prayers for the deceased, their families and communities, and the gospel music community affected by this tragic loss.
The NTSB is currently investigating the crash. Keith Holloway, NTSB Media Relations Specialist, stated that the probe is in its early stages, and information is limited.
Founded by Rex Nelon in the late 1970s, The Nelons have a storied history in gospel music. The group has seen numerous members over the years, consistently releasing albums, earning Grammy nominations, and winning Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove Awards. In 2016, The Nelons were inducted into the GMA Hall of Fame.
Gaither Music Management, in a statement, expressed their deep sorrow for the loss and pledged support for the surviving family members. Autumn and Jamie will return home temporarily to Kelly’s brother, Todd Nelon, and his wife, Rhonda. The organization requested prayers for them, the Kistler family, the Haynie family, and Melodi Hodges’ family.
Jackie Patillo, President of the GMA, noted that The Nelons have been a significant part of the gospel music industry, and their loss is deeply felt. She extended prayers to the families and friends affected by this tragic event.
The Gaither Homecoming Cruise, set to feature various Christian artists, has been postponed. Cruise organizers are working closely with the bereaved families to provide support and assistance during this challenging time.
The gospel music community and fans worldwide are mourning the loss of The Nelons and the others onboard. The group’s legacy in gospel music, reflected in their musical contributions over the decades, will undoubtedly continue.