NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
On October 19, 2021, the gospel music community was shaken by the tragic loss of three members of the beloved gospel group, The Nelons. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a preliminary report on the plane crash that occurred on the afternoon of July 26 in Wyoming, claiming the lives of seven people.
Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler were among those who perished. The group was en route to perform on a cruise in Alaska when their plane, a Pilatus PC-12/47e, tragically went down. Their spouses, the pilot, and his spouse were also killed in the accident.
According to the NTSB’s preliminary report, shortly before the crash, the pilot reported to the Salt Lake City Air Route Traffic the loss of autopilot and declared an emergency. The air traffic controller then asked the pilot where he would like to land but received no initial response. Soon after, the pilot communicated that he was trying to regain control of the airplane. The controller advised the pilot to inform them if he required additional assistance. Investigators believe the plane went down shortly after this exchange.
Witnesses described hearing a “loud whining noise” that diminished and then increased, followed by smoke emanating from the accident site. Another witness reported seeing the airplane in a “barrel roll” maneuver and hearing the engine “roaring loud” until the airplane impacted the terrain. Local law enforcement located the crashed airplane in remote terrain about 12 miles northeast of Recluse, Wyoming.
Besides the Clark family, the crash claimed the lives of Amber Nelon Kistler’s husband, Nathan Kistler, family friend Melodi Hodges, and the spouses Larry and Melissa Haynie. The outpouring of grief and support from the gospel music community and fans has been immense, reflecting the group’s significant impact over the decades.
The Nelons
Active for decades, The Nelons hold a distinguished place in the gospel music industry. They were inducted into the Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame in 2016 and once received a Grammy nomination for Best Southern Gospel Album for their work, “Let The Redeemed Say So,” in 1991. Their signature style blends gospel, a cappella, hymns, Americana, folk, and inspirational music, reaching a broad audience and touching countless hearts.
Following the tragic event, people close to the Atlanta-based group have shared their grief and memories. Two individuals from Carrollton, Georgia, who were particularly dear to the Nelons, expressed their sorrow and highlighted the group’s unwavering commitment to their faith and music.
This devastating loss has sent ripples through the gospel community, with fans and fellow musicians alike remembering The Nelons for their musical contributions and cherished spirit. The crash serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of treasuring every moment.
The NTSB investigation into the exact causes of the crash is ongoing, with further details expected to be released once the full investigation is completed. In the meantime, the legacy of The Nelons continues to inspire and uplift, even in the face of such profound loss.
Remembering the Legacy
The Nelons’ music has always been a beacon of hope and faith. As fans and the community come together to honor their memory, they find comfort in the melodies that will continue to resonate. The group’s ability to blend different musical styles into a harmonious tapestry of sound has left a lasting mark that transcends their time on stage.
Their Facebook page and official website now serve as platforms for fans to share memories, express their condolences, and create a collective tribute to the remarkable journey of Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, Amber Nelon Kistler, and the other lives lost in the tragic accident.
While the physical presence of The Nelons is no longer with us, their music, faith, and the indelible mark they left on the gospel genre will forever remain in the hearts and minds of their admirers.
