FRIENDS and fans of the Nelons, the beloved gospel family who died in a tragic plane crash, are speaking out about their tragic death.
On Friday, three members of the Nelon family, a three-time Grammy-nominated gospel choir, and four others lost their lives in a plane crash en route to a concert.
The trio was headed to perform on the Gaither Homecoming Alaskan Cruise, a seven-day cruise from Seattle, Washington, to Alaska.
Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, all died in the accident.
Now, friends and coworkers of the family are publicly grieving their deaths.
“Our hearts are heavy with the news of the tragic passing of our dear friends,” singer-songwriter Mark Lowry exclusively told The U.S. Sun.
Lowry was set to perform alongside the Nelons on the Alaskan cruise.
“We have created so many precious memories over the decades that I will hold dear, so many good times and so much laughter.
“Our only comfort is knowing that they have seen our Savior face to face, and we’ll join in singing with them again one day soon.”
The plane reportedly went up in flames as it crashed over Wyoming, sparking a huge wildfire.
As the fire raged, emergency responders and fire crews immediately responded.
Everyone on board the jet died, the Wyoming sheriff’s office confirmed.
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The crash also claimed the lives of Nathan Kistler, Amber’s husband, the family’s assistant Melodi Hodges, pilot Larry Haynie, and his wife Melissa Haynie.
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the youngest of the Nelon family, was not on board during the horrific accident as she’s currently pregnant with a baby boy and was instead waiting for the family in Seattle.
Following the death of her parents and sister, Autumn posted on Instagram, thanking everyone for their support.
“As many of you have heard by now, my father and mother, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister, Amber, and brother-in-law, Nathan, as well as our dear friends Melodi Hodges, Larry, and Melissa Haynie, were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday,” she wrote.
“Thank you for the prayers that have been extended already to me, my husband, Jamie, and our soon-to-be-born baby boy, as well as Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark.
“We appreciate your continued prayers, love, and support as we navigate the coming days.”
Adam Crabb, another artist set to perform on the Gaither Homecoming Cruise, posted on Facebook, sending prayers to Autumn and her family.
Crabb reposted the announcement of the trio’s death and wrote, “Heartbroken….
“Praying for Autumn & her family!!”
Fans of the group flocked to the comments to share their sympathy for the youngest daughter and overall love for the gospel group.
“What a blessing their music has been to so many,” one fan wrote.
“Autumn, you have a tough road ahead of you and you have an army of Gaither Artists and fans to help you navigate this.
“Our prayers are with you!”
