The weight of loss is never easy, especially when children are left to navigate the grief of losing a parent. Country music legend Reba McEntire recently offered an intimate glimpse into how Kelly Clarkson’s children are managing the aftermath of Brandon Blackstock’s death, sharing words of comfort and hope.
Walking the red carpet at the 2025 Emmy Awards with a radiant smile, Reba’s joy over her engagement to longtime partner Rex Linn was palpable. Yet, when asked about her late stepson Brandon, her expression turned somber. Just weeks prior, on August 7, 2025, Brandon had passed away following a three-year private battle with cancer. Reba didn’t mince words, expressing, “We miss him, we miss him every minute.”
Fans and followers were eager to know how Brandon’s four children were coping. Brandon leaves behind Savannah (23) and Seth (18) from his first marriage to Melissa Ashworth, along with River Rose (11) and Remington (9) from his marriage to Kelly Clarkson. Reba provided a heartening update: “The kids are doing well. They’re all bonding together, hanging out, and taking it one day at a time. We know God’s got this.” Her words highlighted the resilience of family and the importance of faith during heartbreaking times.
Brandon was always deeply devoted to his family. His obituary described him as a loving father, emphasizing that his children were his greatest joy and legacy. While his career as a music manager gained attention due to his marriage to Clarkson, those closest to him remember him first as a devoted father, someone who cherished every moment with his kids and grandkids.
Video
After Brandon’s passing, Kelly Clarkson made the difficult decision to postpone her Las Vegas residency, prioritizing her children during this critical time. In a heartfelt statement, she shared, “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.” Sources close to Clarkson revealed she was “absolutely heartbroken” but steadfast, determined to remain strong for River and Remington, who continue to be the center of her world.
Reba, who became Brandon’s stepmother when she married his father Narvel Blackstock in 1989, maintained a close bond with him even after her divorce in 2015. Her tribute was heartfelt and raw: “Last week, my stepson/oldest son Brandon Blackstock went home to be with God. 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. Rest in peace, cowboy. Happy trails to you ’til we meet again.”
Even amidst personal joy, Reba carried Brandon’s memory with her. That same night, she shared the stage with Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapman to perform “Thank You for Being a Friend”, honoring the 40th anniversary of The Golden Girls. The performance underscored the power of connection and the support of loved ones in times of grief.
For Brandon’s children, the path forward will not be easy. Yet, surrounded by their mother, family, and the enduring love of Reba McEntire, they are navigating this challenging journey step by step. While Brandon’s absence leaves a void, his spirit lives on through the children he adored and the lasting legacy of love he leaves behind.