The gospel music community is in mourning following the tragic death of three members of The Nelons, a Grammy-nominated family gospel group, in a private plane crash in Wyoming on July 26. The members killed in the crash were singers Kelly Nelon Clark, 64, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, 35, along with Kistler’s husband Nathan Kistler, 34, the band’s assistant Melodi Hodges, and the pilot Larry Haynie and his wife Melissa Haynie. The Gaither Management Group described The Nelons as “one of the best-loved Gospel music families in America” and confirmed that the accident occurred as the group was en route to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska.
The tragic loss of The Nelons has left a deep void in the gospel music community, as the family band was widely known and loved for their musical talent and spiritual message. The devastation of losing multiple members of the same family in a single accident has been felt by fans and fellow musicians alike. Kelly and Jason’s youngest daughter, Autumn Nelon Streetman, 27, who had traveled separately to the cruise with her husband Jamie Streetman, is expecting her first child and expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans during this difficult time.
The Nelons, known for their rich harmonies and uplifting lyrics, had been a fixture in the gospel music scene for many years, earning praise and recognition for their contributions to the genre. The family band’s music had touched the hearts of many listeners and their performances were highly anticipated at events and concerts. The tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of three Nelons members, their assistant, and the pilot and his wife has left the music community in shock and disbelief.
The Gaither Management Group, which represented The Nelons, released a statement expressing their sorrow over the loss of the beloved family band members. The company described The Nelons as a cherished group within the gospel music community and highlighted their involvement in the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska, which they were en route to when the accident occurred. The tragic event has underscored the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones and the moments we have together.
As the gospel music community comes to terms with the devastating loss of The Nelons, tributes and condolences have poured in from fans, friends, and fellow musicians. The outpouring of support and love for the family band has been overwhelming, with many expressing their shock and sadness at the sudden tragedy. The memory of The Nelons and their music will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were touched by their talent and message of faith.
While the loss of The Nelons in the plane crash is a heartbreaking tragedy, their legacy and impact on the gospel music community will endure. The family band’s music will continue to inspire and uplift listeners, and their memory will be honored in future performances and tributes. As fans and fellow musicians mourn the passing of Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, and Amber Nelon Kistler, they will hold onto the cherished memories and music of The Nelons, celebrating the lives and contributions of these talented and beloved gospel musicians.
