Reba McEntire is talking candidly about the passing of her stepson, Brandon Blackstock. He died in August at the age of 48 after a battle with cancer. Blackstock was also the former husband of Kelly Clarkson. The couple has two young kids, River Rose and Remington. Blackstock's loss is clearly painful for the "Fancy" singer, 70. She spoke of him to People with tremendous affection and respect.
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McEntire said, "My relationship with my stepson, Brandon Blackstock, was precious. I absolutely loved that child. He came into my life, I guess he was 4 years old. Then when Narvel and I got married, he was 13, 14. Along with his mom and dad, I helped raise him, along with [step kids] Shawna and Chassidy. They were my kids."
She went on, "Brandon is sorely missed, truly missed with his mischievousness and his love of life. He brought joy to everybody that met him, and we'll never forget him."
McEntire Says He Was Lovably Funny
The singer and The Voice coach recalls Blackstock's humorous side. "He loved to scare people. We'd be at the office there at Starstruck [which was owned by Narvel] in Nashville and I'd be sitting at my desk and I'd see Penny Chubb [a Starstruck Entertainment employee] walk by going to the lady's room, and then here comes Brandon. He'd hide behind the pillar."
The Family Issued a Statement When Blackstock Passed Away
This is what Blackstock's family's rep said the time of his death last summer. "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. 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."
Four years ago, McEntire said this about her stepson per the outlet via Entertainment Tonight. "Although he's my stepson, I still love him like he's my total — my blood."
The Singer Posted a Lovely Remembrance of Him a Week After He Died
McEntire wrote this heartfelt message on Instagram days following Blackstock's death. "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. His legacy and laughter will be carried on through his family. Rest in peace cowboy. Happy trails to you til we meet again."
