Seven individuals, including three members of the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet, The Nelons, perished in a plane crash in Wyoming. The fatal accident, which occurred on July 26, 2024, took the lives of Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, Amber Nelon Kistler, Nathan Kistler, their assistant Melodi Hodges, and the pilot, Larry Haynie and his wife, Melissa.
The Atlanta-based gospel group was on their way to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise in Alaska when their Pilatus PC-12/47E aircraft crashed near Gillette, Wyoming. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that the crash happened around 1 p.m. local time, triggering a wildfire that local fire departments struggled to control.
The only surviving member of The Nelons not onboard the plane, Autumn Nelon Streetman, expressed gratitude for the support and prayers extended to her, her husband Jamie, their unborn son, and Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark.
Georgia’s Governor, Brian Kemp, conveyed his condolences and highlighted the loss of Larry Haynie, the chairman of the Georgia Board of Corrections. Governor Kemp urged everyone to pray for the deceased, their families, their communities, and the entire gospel music community mourning the loss of their beloved peers.
The NTSB is currently investigating the crash, with preliminary information pointing toward an autopilot malfunction during the flight. NTSB Media Relations Specialist, Keith Holloway, stated that the investigation was in its early stages with only limited information currently available. The aircraft’s remote location has posed accessibility challenges. Once reachable, investigators will document the scene and examine the aircraft prior to its transportation to a secure facility for further evaluation.
The Nelons, established in the late 1970s by Rex Nelon, have a long-standing legacy in gospel music. The group has undergone several member changes over the years but has consistently produced numerous albums, garnered multiple Grammy nominations, and won several Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove Awards. The Nelons were inducted into the GMA Hall of Fame in 2016 for their significant contributions to the genre.
Expressing their deep sorrow for the loss, Gaither Music Management pledged their support to the surviving family members. Autumn and Jamie will temporarily stay with Kelly’s brother, Todd Nelon, and his wife, Rhonda, as they navigate the challenging times ahead. The organization requested prayers for them and the families of the Kistlers, Haynies, and Melodi Hodges.
Jackie Patillo, President of the GMA, noted the profound impact of The Nelons’ loss on the gospel music community. Countless fans and fellow artists have expressed their condolences and support. Patillo extended prayers to the families and friends affected by the accident.
In light of the tragedy, 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 bereaved families during this challenging period.
As the investigation advances, fans worldwide and the gospel music community mourn the loss of The Nelons and their companions. Their lasting legacy in gospel music, marked by their songs and contributions, will continue to touch lives for many years to come.
