Country music legend Reba McEntire has shared a heartfelt tribute following the death of her former stepson, Brandon Blackstock.
The singer, known for her iconic career spanning decades, took to Instagram to express her grief and love for the man she once called family.
Tribute Shared on Social Media
On Monday, Reba commented on a post shared by her son Shelby Blackstock, writing, “Very well said Shelby.
Yes we will miss him so much,” accompanied by red heart and broken heart emojis.
The 70-year-old singer’s words resonated deeply with fans mourning the loss of Brandon, who passed away at the age of 48 from melanoma cancer on August 7.
Family Ties and Past Marriages
Brandon was the son of Narvel Blackstock, Reba’s former husband, who she was married to from 1989 to 2015.
Brandon also shared two young children with Kelly Clarkson, to whom he was married for nearly seven years before their split in 2020.
At the time of his passing, Brandon had been romantically involved with Clarkson’s assistant, as revealed in his obituary.
Shelby Blackstock’s Heartfelt Words
The day after Brandon’s death, Shelby posted a moving tribute to his late brother.
“Words cannot begin to capture the tremendous loss our family has endured.
Yesterday, we lost a brother, a father, a grandfather, and a son,” he wrote, accompanied by throwback photos of the siblings.
Shelby described Brandon as “funny, bright, and full of life,” adding that he had taught him many valuable lessons.
He concluded his post with a touching message: “We will always miss you, Brandon, and we will never stop loving, remembering and celebrating you.”
Reba’s Enduring Love for Brandon
Reba has often spoken fondly of Brandon, referring to him as her own son despite their step-relationship.
In a 2021 interview with Entertainment Tonight, she said, “Brandon’s been my son forever it seems.
Although he’s my stepson, I still love him like he’s my total — my blood…”
Earlier this year, Reba and Brandon’s family reunited at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where she was one of the headliners.
Sources told Us Weekly that she flew out the entire family for the event, turning it into a family vacation and spending significant time together—more than in previous years.
Family Coming Together
Photos shared by Shelby show Reba alongside her boyfriend Rex Linn, Brandon, and his eldest daughter Savannah.
Brandon’s sisters Chassidy and Shawna, along with Shelby and his wife Marissa, were also in attendance.
An insider revealed, “Narvel and his wife, Laura, and Reba’s boyfriend, Rex, are at a place where they can be together and talk, which is a big step.”
The source added, “Reba has a heart of gold, and she was there for Brandon and his kids. They are family at the end of the day.”
Remembering Brandon’s Legacy
Brandon is survived by his children with Kelly Clarkson—daughter River Rose, 11, and son Remy, nine—as well as his children from his first marriage, daughter Savannah, 23, and son Seth, 18.
He also became a grandfather in January 2022 when Savannah welcomed her first child, Lake Lee, and just a month before his passing, Savannah announced she was expecting a second child.
Through these tributes and family gatherings, Reba and her extended family continue to honor Brandon’s memory, celebrating the joy and love he brought into their lives.