The Family Brandon Blackstock Left Behind

Brandon Blackstock, who was the ex-husband of singer Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire’s former stepson, tragically passed away on Thursday, Aug. 7, at the age of 48.

He is survived by his four children, along with his father, Narvel Blackstock, and his mother, Elisa Gayle Ritter. So, let’s learn more about the family he left behind.

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Brandon Blackstock’s Parents

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Brandon’s father Narvel Blackstock is also a talent manager who worked with Blake Shelton, Reba McEntire, and Kelly Clarkson. His mother is Elisa Gilbert.

Narvel married Reba McEntire in 1989, and the two had a child together, but they announced their separation in 2015. However, McEntire made it clear that she will always view Brandon as her son, and even referred to his children as her grandchildren in a 2018 interview with People.

“I don’t ever see the grandkids,” McEntire told the outlet. “It was a lot better when everybody was not so busy, but I’ve got seven grandchildren, so they’re scattered all over the country and busy doing stuff. But I love them.”

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Brandon Blackstock’s Children

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Brandon Blackstock has four children, two of whom he had with his ex-wife Melissa Ashworth and two of whom he had with Kelly Clarkson. Here’s more information about Savannah, Seth, River, and Remy.

Savannah
Blackstock’s first child was born on June 7, 2022 and she had a close bond with her father. She also made Blackstock a grandparent in January 2022 when she welcomed her first child with Quentin Lee.

Savannah announced in July 2025 that she is expecting another child in January 2026.

Seth
Seth Blackstock, which was the second child he had with Ashworth, was born on November 21, 2006.

River Rose
Blackstock and Clarkson welcomed their first child together on June 12, 2012.

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Kelly Clarkson ‘Devastated’ for Her Children Following Death of Brandon Blackstock

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A source told PEOPLE that the singer has “been devastated” for her children, River (11) and Remington (9).

“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” the source told the outlet. “Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She’s been devastated for the kids.”

While her divorce from her ex-husband was very public and messy, she always respected that he was the father of her children.

“The divorce was incredibly difficult for her — messy, painful and something she felt terrible about,” the source said. “But she always wanted her kids to have the best relationship possible with their dad. She never spoke poorly about Brandon to the kids.”