The gospel music community has been plunged into deep sorrow following the tragic news of a plane crash that took the lives of three esteemed members of the acclaimed vocal group, the Nelons. Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler were among the seven victims who tragically lost their lives in this heartrending accident that happened on Friday in Campbell County, Wyoming.
The unfortunate incident transpired as the award-winning family ensemble was traveling to Seattle for a scheduled performance on the annual Gaither Homecoming Alaska Cruise. The Pilatus PC-12/47E single-engine turboprop carrying seven passengers crashed around 1 p.m. local time, leaving authorities with a challenging task of investigating what caused this tragic event.
Saluting the Fallen: Remembering the Nelons’ Legacy
Originating from Atlanta, Georgia, the Nelons have made an indelible mark in gospel vocal group genre. Their unique fusion of gospel, a cappella, hymns, Americana, folk and inspirational music has earned them a loyal fanbase and numerous accolades over time.
The Nelons were honored with an induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2016. They have enjoyed significant success in Southern gospel genre with 20 top 5 songs to their name. Their musical contributions have been acknowledged with 10 Dove Awards and an impressive tally of 35 nominations from the Gospel Music Association (GMA), including Country/Bluegrass/Roots Recorded Song of the Year in 2021 for their moving rendition of “If God Pulled Back The Curtain.”
The roots of Nelons can be traced back to when Kelly’s father Rex Nelon assumed leadership of LeFevres. In 1977 they became known as Rex Nelon Singers, and by 1985, they evolved into the Nelons. Kelly joined the group part-time in 1972, and later took on a full-time role along with management responsibilities after her father’s retirement in 1997. Jason Clark became a member of the ensemble in 1994, while Amber Nelon Kistler started singing with her parents’ group in 2002.
Expressions of Sympathy and Support
In light of this devastating event, there has been an outpouring of condolences and support from various sectors, reflecting the deep influence that the Nelons have had on the gospel music community and beyond.
The president of the Gospel Music Association, Jackie Patillo expressed her profound grief saying, “Our entire music community is grieving over the tragic loss of Jason, Kelly, and Amber, as well as others involved in this tragic plane crash. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with Autumn and rest of Nelon family. They will be forever cherished and remembered in GMA Hall of Fame.”
Georgia’s governor also extended his heartfelt condolences urging everyone to pray for those who have been lost, their loved ones and communities affected by this tragic accident.
Despite overwhelming grief, the gospel music community has rallied around surviving members of Nelon family. Autumn Nelon Streetman (Kelly’s youngest daughter) and her husband Jamie Streetman were not on board during this ill-fated flight. They were promptly informed about the accident upon safely arriving at Seattle where they were embraced by Gaither family and fellow artists offering support during this difficult time.
Investigation Into The Tragic Incident
As mourning continues authorities are diligently working to unravel circumstances surrounding fatal crash. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) dispatched investigators to crash site, although initial efforts were hampered by challenging terrain and a fire that broke out near the crash site.
No official cause has been cited as yet, but NTSB’s investigation aims to shed light on factors that led to this devastating incident. Authorities will meticulously examine wreckage, review flight data and gather eyewitness accounts to gain a comprehensive understanding of events leading up to the crash.
Preserving the Nelons’ Legacy
As the gospel music community mourns these cherished individuals, efforts are being made to ensure that Nelons’ remarkable legacy lives on. Their music has touched countless hearts and souls and will continue to resonate as testament of their unwavering faith and artistic brilliance.
Fans, fellow artists and industry professionals alike are encouraged to celebrate Nelons’ impact by revisiting their beloved songs and sharing cherished memories. Through collective remembrance, group’s influence will transcend time inspiring future generations.
In addition to honoring memory of those who have passed it is crucial to rally behind surviving members of Nelon family. Autumn Nelon Streetman and her husband Jamie will undoubtedly face immense challenges in days ahead. Unwavering support from gospel music community during this trying period will be invaluable.
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