Reba McEntire’s son Shelby Blackstock is mourning the loss of his half-brother, Brandon Blackstock, who died Thursday at the age of 48 after a three-year battle with melanoma.
Brandon, a former talent manager and the ex-husband of Kelly Clarkson, shared two children with the singer — River, 11, and Remington, 9. The pair were married from 2013 until 2022. Just a day before his death was announced, Kelly postponed the remainder of her August Las Vegas residency shows, telling fans she needed to be fully present for her children as their father had been ill.
Brandon was the son of Narvel Blackstock and Elisa Gayle Ritter. Narvel later married Reba, with whom he shares Shelby.
On Friday, Shelby posted a heartfelt tribute alongside a series of throwback photos of Brandon. “Words cannot begin to capture the tremendous loss our family has endured. Yesterday, we lost a brother, a father, a grandfather, and a son,” Shelby wrote. He described Brandon as “funny, bright, and full of life,” adding, “He taught me so much, leaving behind countless cherished memories that I will hold onto forever.”
Shelby reflected on their shared adventures — hunting, flying, and everyday moments — and closed with a lighthearted jab: “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.”
Photos in the post showed the brothers together, Brandon with family, and even one of him riding a horse while holding a beer.
Brandon had remained close to Reba even after her 2015 divorce from Narvel. In past interviews, she said she never considered Narvel’s children to be stepchildren: “I still love him like he’s my blood.”
Following his split from Kelly, Reba maintained friendships with both. Kelly confirmed in 2023 that she and Reba still text often, saying there were “no hard feelings” and mutual understanding about how life can take unexpected turns.
On Thursday, a family rep shared: “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 for privacy during this very difficult time.”
Brandon is survived by his children with Kelly, as well as his children from a previous marriage — Seth, and Savannah, 23, along with her husband and their young son.