Reba McEntire is speaking out about the loss of her former stepson, Brandon Blackstock. Blackstock, who passed away last week, is the son of Reba’s former husband, Narvel Blackstock. He was also previously married to Kelly Clarkson.
“Last week, my stepson/oldest son Brandon Blackstock went home to be with God,” Reba writes, sharing a few photos of them together over the years. “His struggle is over and he is in eternal peace in God’s presence. There is no one else like him, and I’m thankful for the time we had together.
“His legacy and laughter will be carried on through his family,” she adds. “Rest in peace cowboy. Happy trails to you til we meet again.”
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Reba McEntire’s Son Shelby Mourns The Loss Of Brandon Blackstock
Reba was married to Blackstock’s father from 1989 to 2015. They have one son together, Shelby, who was born in 1990. Shelby spoke out about his stepbrother’s passing in a heartfelt tribute, shortly after the news was announced.
“Words cannot begin to capture the tremendous loss our family has endured,” Shelby writes. “Yesterday, we lost a brother, a father, a grandfather, and a son. Brandon Blackstock was an irreplaceable part of our family—funny, bright, and full of life—and he will be deeply missed. He taught me so much, leaving behind countless cherished memories that I will hold onto forever. For every treasured moment we shared, there are so many more we’ll never get to make together, but I know you’ll still be there. Every hunt, every flight, and in the everyday moments of life, I’ll feel your presence.
“And although it may annoy you, you’ll have to watch me do it all just a little better, a little smoother, and —let’s be honest— looking far more handsome than you ever could in the process,” he adds with a smiling emoji. “We will always miss you, Brandon, and we will never stop loving, remembering and celebrating you.”
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Kelly Clarkson’s Response to Brandon Blackstock’s Passing
Kelly and Brandon shared two children, an 11-year-old daughter River, and a nine-year-old son, Remington. Only a few hours before Brandon passed away, Clarkson announced on social media that she was postponing the dates on her Studio Sessions Las Vegas residency, to be with her children.
“Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” Clarkson revealed on social media.
“While I normally keep my personal life private, this past year, my children’s father has been ill and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them. I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
What Happened To Brandon Blackstock
According to People, Brandon passed away from melanoma, a form of skin cancer. When announcing his passing, a statement revealed that he had been battling cancer for three years.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the statement reads. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”
Photo Credit: ACM / Christopher Polk