A devastating plane crash claimed the lives of seven members of the Nelons, a well-loved gospel music family. Among the victims were Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, their daughter Amber, son-in-law Nathan Kistler, family assistant Melanie Hodges, as well as the pilot, Larry Haynie, and his wife Melissa. The only member of the family to survive, Autumn Nelon Streetman, issued a moving statement, expressing both her profound sorrow and gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support from the community.

The family was on their way to Alaska for the Gaither Homecoming Cruise when the plane tragically crashed in Wyoming. Eyewitnesses described seeing the aircraft plummet to the ground in flames. Despite the swift response of emergency services, no one on board survived the impact.

The Nelons, widely known for their contributions to gospel music, were inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016. Over the years, they produced beloved songs such as “I Shall Not Be Moved,” “Come Morning,” and “We Shall Wear a Robe and Crown,” leaving a lasting legacy within the genre.

Autumn reiterated her “grief and gratitude for the prayers and support” as the family and the gospel community grapple with this heartbreaking loss. The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.

This tragedy has profoundly affected the gospel music world, which continues to honor the Nelons for their enduring influence and significant contributions to the genre.