On July 26th, 2024, a fatal plane crash in Wyoming claimed the lives of seven individuals, including three members of the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame group, The Nelons. The victims included Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, Amber Nelon Kistler and her husband Nathan, their assistant Melodi Hodges, and the plane’s pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife, Melissa. The tragic event occurred as the Atlanta, Georgia-based group was on their way to an engagement at the Gaither Homecoming Cruise in Alaska.
The plane, a Pilatus PC-12/47E, crashed near Gillette, Wyoming, around 1 p.m. local time, sparking a wildfire that local fire departments had to combat. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a statement confirming the crash and revealing initial indicators suggest there may have been an issue with the plane’s autopilot system during the flight.
The only remaining member of The Nelons who wasn’t onboard the flight, Autumn Nelon Streetman, has publicly expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support she and her family have received in the wake of the disaster. She extended her thanks to those praying for her, her husband Jamie, their unborn son, and Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark.
Georgia’s Governor, Brian Kemp, issued a statement of condolence, specifically noting the loss of Larry Haynie, the chairman of the Georgia Board of Corrections. The governor urged everyone to pray for the deceased, their families, their communities, and the entire gospel music community that is mourning the loss of their colleagues and friends.
The NTSB’s investigation into the crash is still in its early stages, according to Keith Holloway, NTSB Media Relations Specialist. The crash site, located in a remote area, will be thoroughly documented and the aircraft transported to a secure facility for a deeper examination once it is accessible.
The Nelons, founded by Rex Nelon in the late 1970s, have made numerous contributions to gospel music, earning multiple Grammy nominations, winning several Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove Awards, and releasing a host of albums. The group was inducted into the GMA Hall of Fame in 2016.
Gaither Music Management issued a statement expressing deep regret over the tragedy and promising to assist the surviving family members. Autumn and Jamie are expected to temporarily return home to Kelly’s brother, Todd Nelon, and his wife, Rhonda, to begin dealing with the aftermath of the tragedy. Gaither Music Management requested prayers for the Kistler and Haynie families, and Melodi Hodges’ family.
Jackie Patillo, President of the GMA, acknowledged The Nelons’ significance in the gospel music community and extended her prayers to all families and friends affected by the crash. The Gaither Homecoming Cruise has been postponed, and organizers are working closely with the affected families to provide support and assistance.
As the investigation continues, The Nelons’ fans and the wider gospel music community mourn the loss of the group members and those who were traveling with them. The Nelons’ legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate in the gospel music community, as their music and contributions have impacted many over the years.
