Beloved “The Voice” coach Reba McEntire is remembering her late stepson, Brandon Blackstock, with love, reflection, and gratitude. The country music icon paused her regular social media posts on December 16 to mark Brandon’s birthday. It was the first birthday since his death in August, following a battle with cancer. Blackstock was also known as Kelly Clarkson‘s former husband.
A Rare Family Photo Shared in Brandon’s Memory
McEntire shared a rare photo on Instagram showing herself alongside Brandon and his siblings Shawna, Chassidy, and Shelby. Shawna and Chassidy are McEntire’s stepchildren from her former marriage to Narvel Blackstock, while Shelby is her biological son.
The group stands close together in the image, arms wrapped around one another, smiling warmly at the camera. The setting is unclear, but the moment captures a sense of closeness and family unity.
McEntire paired the photo with a simple, heartfelt message: “Happy birthday Brandon! We love and miss you a bunch. ❤️❤️❤️.”
Fans quickly filled the comments with messages of support, remembrance, and sympathy.
“Happy Heavenly Birthday Brandon ❤️ thinking of you today ❤️,” one person wrote.
“So sorry for you and your family during the holidays,” another added.
Others shared messages like “Happy Birthday Brandon,” “Thinking of you all!” and “Beautiful photo! Sending love to you and the family.”
This post marked McEntire’s first public tribute to Brandon since she announced his passing in August.
Remembering Brandon Blackstock’s Life & Legacy
Following Brandon’s death, McEntire shared the news with a moving statement.
“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.”
She continued, “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.”
She also shared several photos of moments spent together over the years, highlighting their close bond. Brandon was the youngest child of Narvel Blackstock and his first wife, Elisa Gayle Ritter.
In the days that followed, friends and colleagues, including Melissa Peterman, John Legend, and Wynonna Judd, shared messages of condolence and support.
A Brother’s Emotional Birthday Message
Brandon is survived by four children. Savannah and Seth are from his first marriage to Melissa Ashworth. River and Remy are from his marriage to Clarkson. McEntire’s son, Shelby, also shared a deeply personal tribute on Brandon’s birthday.
“Happy 49th birthday, Brandon. I think about you every day, and it’s still hard to believe you’re gone. This morning felt strange not making that 5am birthday call just to be the first one. You never know how special those moments are until they’re gone.
“I know you’re having the best birthday up there— with an endless supply of Coors Lights & your favorite.
“Happy birthday. I love you and miss you so much!!!”
As the Blackstock family continues to grieve, Brandon is being remembered through shared memories, sweet messages, and an outpouring of love from those who knew him.
