Brandon Blackstock’s obituary has revealed a deeply personal chapter of his life that few knew about — his return to the cowboy lifestyle he always dreamed of, and his new relationship with Kelly Clarkson’s former assistant. The tribute notes that after over 20 years in the music industry, Brandon settled in Butte, Montana, where he found both a homestead and a partner in Brittney Marie Jones. Together, the pair built businesses including Headwaters Livestock Auction and the Valley View Rodeo in Bozeman, a legacy that will carry his name far beyond his passing.
The obituary also spoke of his most cherished role — fatherhood. Brandon leaves behind four children: Savannah, 23, and Seth, 18, from his first marriage to Melissa Ashworth, and River, 11, and Remy, 9, from his marriage to Kelly Clarkson. His tribute described them as “his greatest love and his greatest legacy.” That love only deepened when he became “Pa” to his grandchildren Lake, Julie, and LouCasey, the latter of whom is still on the way.
Blackstock passed away last week at the age of 48 after battling an aggressive form of melanoma. His death prompted heartfelt tributes from his children and family members, many of whom turned to social media to honor his memory. His first wife, Melissa, recalled their wedding day in 1999 and praised his charm, humor, and devotion to family, writing, “He was by far, hands down, the best Daddy and Pa.” She also found comfort in her faith, saying she knows Brandon is “with Jesus his Savior.”
His son Seth shared a deeply personal message, calling his father his hero and best friend. He expressed gratitude for the way Brandon raised his children, recalling shared passions for hunting and fishing, and promising to see him “everyday when the sun rises and falls.” Seth’s words painted the picture of a man who lived life fully and left behind a blueprint of love, resilience, and dedication for his children to follow.
Brandon’s younger brother, Shelby Blackstock — son of Reba McEntire and Narvel Blackstock — also shared a moving tribute. He described Brandon as “funny, bright, and full of life,” and promised to carry their shared memories into every hunt, flight, and quiet moment. Shelby emphasized that while the family’s loss is immeasurable, Brandon’s presence will always be felt in the activities and traditions they once enjoyed together.
While Kelly Clarkson has not made a public statement, sources told People magazine that she is “devastated” by his death. The insider revealed that despite their painful and messy divorce in 2022, Kelly always prioritized her children’s relationship with their father and “never spoke poorly about Brandon to the kids.” She reportedly remained protective of him once she learned of his illness, focusing on shielding their children from additional heartache.
Blackstock’s life ended far too soon, but the tributes from those closest to him reveal a man who embraced the simple beauty of Montana’s open skies, poured his energy into building something lasting, and loved his family above all else. From the music industry to the rodeo arena, and from city lights to mountain sunsets, Brandon lived many chapters — and leaves behind a story of grit, love, and legacy.
