When people talk about the wedding Kelly Nelon Clark hosted or her own marriage to Jason Clark, they aren’t just talking about flowers and white dresses. They’re talking about a legacy that basically anchored the Southern Gospel world for decades. Honestly, it’s impossible to mention Kelly’s life without looking at Venue 1074—the gorgeous farm and wedding destination she and Jason owned in Roopville, Georgia.
It wasn't just a business. It was home.
The Roots of a Gospel Powerhouse
Kelly was the daughter of the legendary Rex Nelon. She didn't just stumble into music; she was born into it. For years, she was the heart of The Nelons, a group that won about every award you can think of, from Doves to Grammy nominations. But away from the stage lights and the tour bus, Kelly’s life was deeply intertwined with her family’s milestones.
You’ve probably seen the videos of her daughters, Amber and Autumn, singing. It was a family affair in the truest sense. Kelly was first married to Jerry Thompson, who was also a member of the group. They had two daughters, Amber and Autumn, who eventually grew up to join the ministry themselves. After she and Jerry divorced in 1998, Kelly found a life partner in Jason Clark.
They married in 2001. That union didn't just solidify the future of The Nelons; it created a new chapter for their family life in Georgia.
Why Venue 1074 Defined the Wedding Kelly Nelon Clark Built
For many fans, the wedding Kelly Nelon Clark is associated with isn't just one single day, but the hundreds of days she spent helping other couples start their lives at Venue 1074. Located in the rolling hills of Roopville, this farm was a passion project for Kelly and Jason.
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- It featured a classic, rustic barn.
- The property spanned acres of lush Georgia landscape.
- It served as a sanctuary for the family when they weren't on the road.
Kelly had a way of making people feel seen. Whether she was singing "Oh For a Thousand Tongues" or helping a nervous bride adjust a veil, she had this warmth. It’s kinda rare to find someone who can command a stage and then go home to manage the logistics of a working farm and event space, but that was just her.
A Family Bonded by Vows and Verse
The weddings within the Nelon family itself were always major events for their fans. Amber Nelon Kistler’s marriage to Nathan Kistler was a highlight for the community. Amber, who joined the group at just 12 years old, was a powerhouse soprano. When she and Nathan married, it felt like the "next generation" of the Nelon legacy was firmly in place.
Autumn Nelon Streetman, the youngest, also shared her life with fans, including her marriage to Jamie Streetman. If you look back at old footage, you’ll see the sisters supporting each other at every turn. They weren't just coworkers; they were best friends.
The Tragedy That Changed Everything
It’s hard to talk about the joy of these family weddings without acknowledging the heartbreak of July 2024. The gospel music world was leveled by the news of a plane crash in Wyoming.
Seven people lost their lives that day. Among them were Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, and Amber’s husband, Nathan. They were on their way to the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska. It was a routine trip for a family that spent their lives traveling to share their faith.
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- The NTSB investigation initially pointed toward an autopilot issue.
- The crash occurred in a remote area, sparking a small wildfire.
- Autumn and her husband Jamie were not on the plane, as they had traveled separately.
The loss was unimaginable. Not just for the music industry, but for the community in Roopville who knew Kelly as the lady who ran the local wedding venue.
Remembering the Nelon Legacy Today
So, why does the wedding Kelly Nelon Clark legacy still matter so much? Because she lived what she sang. In an industry that can sometimes feel transactional, Kelly and Jason were known for being the "real deal." They didn't just sing about love and faith; they built a physical space—Venue 1074—to celebrate those things for others.
The Nelons weren't just a quartet. They were a bridge between the old-school "Rex Nelon Singers" era and a modern, rootsy gospel sound. Kelly was the glue. She was an actress, a vocalist, a business owner, and most importantly, a mother.
Even in the wake of the tragedy, the impact of their lives continues. Autumn has shown incredible strength, continuing to share the family’s message while navigating her own path. The music remains. The stories of the lives changed at their Georgia farm remain.
Actionable Next Steps for Fans and Supporters
If you want to honor the memory of Kelly Nelon Clark and her family, there are several meaningful ways to engage with their legacy:
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Listen to the Final Recordings Shortly before the accident, the group completed a final album titled Loving You. Listening to these tracks is one of the best ways to hear the heart of what Kelly and Jason were working on in their final days.
Support the Family’s Memorials Follow official updates from the Gaither Management Group or Autumn Nelon Streetman regarding any foundations or memorial funds established to support the surviving family members and the upkeep of their estates.
Visit the History of Southern Gospel Kelly was a GMA Hall of Fame inductee. Take the time to look into the history of the Rex Nelon Singers and the LeFevres to understand the deep roots Kelly came from.
Keep the Community Spirit Alive The best way to honor a life built on hospitality and music is to support local music and event venues in your own area. Kelly’s work at Venue 1074 was about bringing people together—continue that tradition in your own life by prioritizing community and family milestones.
The story of the Nelons is one of harmony, both in their music and their lives. While the silence left by their passing is loud, the echoes of their songs and the memories of the weddings they hosted continue to resonate through the hills of Georgia and the hearts of fans worldwide.