Three members of the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet, The Nelons, along with four other people, have died in a plane crash in Wyoming. The crash, which occurred on July 26, 2024, claimed the lives of Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, Kistler’s husband Nathan, and their assistant Melodi Hodges. The pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife, Melissa, also died in the crash.
The Atlanta-based gospel group was en route to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise in Alaska when the Pilatus PC-12/47E aircraft went down near Gillette, Wyoming. According to a statement from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the crash happened around 1 p.m. local time and sparked a wildfire that county fire departments worked to contain.
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the sole surviving member of the group who was not on the flight, voiced her appreciation for the support shown to her and her family. She thanked everyone for the prayers offered for her, her husband Jamie, their soon-to-arrive baby boy, and for Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed his condolences, emphasizing the loss of Larry Haynie, who was the chairman of the Georgia Board of Corrections. Kemp requested that everyone join in praying for those who have passed, their families and communities, and for the entire gospel music community, which has lost dear friends in this tragic event.
The NTSB is investigating the crash, with initial information indicating an autopilot issue during the flight. According to Keith Holloway, NTSB Media Relations Specialist, the investigation is still very early, and limited information is currently available. The aircraft is located in a remote area. Once accessible, investigators will start documenting the scene and examining the aircraft, which will then be transported to a secure facility for further evaluation.
The Nelons, founded by Rex Nelon in the late 1970s, have a rich history in gospel music. Over the years, the group has seen various members come and go but has consistently released numerous albums, earned multiple Grammy nominations, and won several Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove Awards. The group was inducted into the GMA Hall of Fame in 2016, recognizing their significant contributions to gospel music.
In a statement, Gaither Music Management conveyed deep sorrow for the loss and promised to support the surviving family members. Autumn and Jamie will temporarily return home to Kelly’s brother, Todd Nelon, and his wife, Rhonda, to start the difficult tasks ahead. The organization asked for prayers for them, the Kistler family, the Haynie family, and Melodi Hodges’ family.
The tragedy has significantly affected the gospel music community, with numerous fans and fellow artists expressing their condolences and support. Jackie Patillo, President of the GMA, noted that The Nelons have been a cornerstone of the gospel music scene, and their loss is profoundly felt by everyone who knew and loved them. She extended prayers to the families and friends of all affected by this accident.
The Gaither Homecoming Cruise, which was set to feature performances by various Christian artists, has been postponed. The cruise organizers are working closely with the affected families to support and assist them during this difficult time.
As the investigation continues, the gospel music community and fans worldwide mourn the loss of The Nelons and those who accompanied them. Their legacy in gospel music will undoubtedly endure, as their songs and contributions have touched countless lives over the decades.
