Three members of the well-known US gospel group, The Nelons, lost their lives in a plane crash on Friday, July 26.
The group’s management, Gaither Music, confirmed the tragic news on social media.
The victims include Jason Clark, Kelly Nelon Clark, and their daughter Amber Kistler.
Amber’s husband, Nathan Kistler, and their assistant, Melodi Hodges, also perished in the crash, along with the plane’s pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife, Melissa.
The family was en route to perform on the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska when the crash occurred.
The Campbell County Facebook page reported that the accident happened around 1 p.m. north of Gillette, Wyoming, and triggered a wildfire.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently investigating the incident.
Preliminary information suggests that an “autopilot issue during flight” might have caused the crash.
An NTSB spokesperson indicated that a team of investigators has been dispatched to the site, with a preliminary report expected in about 30 days.
A final report determining the probable cause could take up to two years.
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the youngest daughter of the Clarks, was not on the plane.
In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, she expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers during this challenging time.
She and her husband, Jamie, were informed of the tragedy upon their arrival in Seattle.
Gaither Music conveyed their condolences and support for the surviving family members, noting that Autumn and Jamie will return home to Kelly’s brother, Todd Nelon, and his wife, Rhonda, to begin the difficult tasks ahead.
The management group, along with artists gathered with Bill and Gloria Gaither, pledged their support and prayers for the bereaved families.
The plane involved was identified as a Pilatus PC-12/47E aircraft.
The gospel music community and fans of The Nelons are mourning the loss of these beloved artists, known for their Grammy-nominated contributions to gospel music.
The Nelons first came together in the 1980s, emerging from a deep family musical heritage.
The original lineup featured siblings Kelly Nelon Clark and her brother, Jason Clark, alongside their parents, Rex Nelon and his wife, Susan Nelon.
Rex Nelon, a respected figure in Southern Gospel music, had previously led the Rex Nelon Singers, and his experience and talent significantly shaped the group’s early sound.
The Nelons quickly gained recognition for their exceptional harmonies, which became a hallmark of their music.
Their performances and recordings are noted for blending traditional Southern Gospel elements with contemporary influences, creating a unique and appealing sound that resonates with a broad audience.
This fusion has helped them stay relevant and beloved in the evolving landscape of gospel music.
Over the years, the group’s lineup has seen changes as members came and went, but the core of the Nelons’ identity—characterized by their rich vocal harmonies and spiritual depth—has remained intact.
They have been honored with numerous awards from prestigious organizations within the gospel music community, underscoring their impact and excellence.
In addition to their award-winning recordings, the Nelons are celebrated for their dynamic live performances, which continue to draw audiences across the country.
Their popular songs include, Songs from the Heart (1990), a powerful, upbeat anthem that captures the essence of Southern Gospel’s message of hope and anticipation for Christ’s return.
A staple of their repertoire, it is known for its uplifting lyrics and dynamic arrangement.
