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Published on August 07, 2024
Gospel Group The Nelons to be Remembered in Celebration of Life After Fatal Wyoming Plane CrashSource: Wikipedia/Southerngospelvideos, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Yesterday marks a somber occasion as the members of the esteemed gospel group The Nelons are to be honored in a celebration of life service following a tragic plane crash in Wyoming. As reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, the crash claimed the lives of the group's co-founder, Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, as well as Nelon Kistler's husband, Nathan Kistler; family friend Melodi Hodges; and Larry and Melissa Haynie.

The National Transportation Safety Board has begun to thoroughly investigate the accident that occurred nearly two weeks ago. The group was traveling to participate in the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska. The preliminary findings of the crash aren't expected to be released for about a month, and a final report could take as much to two years to complete according to statements obtained by WSBTV.

The Nelons, inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016 and recipients of 10 GMA Dove Awards, are remembered not only for their musical legacy but also for the impact they had on their community. Autumn Nelon Streetman, the surviving member of the quartet, shared her grief on Instagram, expressing gratitude toward those offering prayers and support. "We appreciate your continued prayers, love and support as we navigate the coming days," Nelon Streetman said, in a statement posted on her Instagram page.

The service to honor the late musicians will take place at Roopville Road Baptist Church, starting from 1 p.m. with family visitations scheduled before, from 10 a.m. to noon. The Georgia Board of Corrections chairman, Larry Haynie, who perished alongside his wife Melissa, will also be remembered for his career of public service, with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp joining in the mourning community, expressing solidarity and calling for prayers. “Our entire family is asking everyone to join us in praying for those who have been lost, for their loved ones and communities, and for those throughout the gospel music community who have lost dear friends in this heartbreaking accident,” Kemp told FOX 5 Atlanta.

Messages of condolences can be shared through the funeral home's website, as loved ones and fans alike look for ways to honor the memory and contributions of The Nelons.