Reba McEntire Shares Message on Brandon Blackstock’s “Struggle”

Originally appeared on E! Online

Reba McEntire is looking back on Brandon Blackstock‘s final days.

The Reba alum reflected on her stepson’s challenging yearslong battle with cancer in a heartbreaking message following his death at age 48.

“Last week, my stepson/oldest son Brandon Blackstock went home to be with God,” Reba wrote in an Aug. 12 Instagram post, alongside several photos of the pair together. “His struggle is over and he is in eternal peace in God’s presence.”

And the 70-year-old—who was married to Brandon’s dad Narvel Blackstock from 1989 to 2015—emphasized that the late talent manager’s spot in her heart can’t be replaced.

“There is no one else like him, and I’m thankful for the time we had together,” she continued. “His legacy and laughter will be carried on through his family.”

Reba added, “Rest in peace cowboy. Happy trails to you til we meet again.”

The “Survivor” singer is one of several loved ones to publicly mourn the death of Brandon, who passed away on Aug. 7 in his home due to natural causes related to a diagnosis of melanoma, Silver Bow County Coroner Dan Hollis confirmed to E! News.

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Brandon’s ex-wife Melissa Ashworth Wells—who he was married to from 1999 to 2012 before tying the knot with Kelly Clarkson—also shared a heartfelt tribute following his untimely passing.

“Brandon was full of charm, witt [sic], and just an absolute gentleman who happened to wear cowboy boots, wrangler jeans, and a cowboy hat,” Melissa—who shares kids Savannah Blackstock, 23, and Seth Blackstock, 18, with Brandon—wrote on Instagram Aug. 8. “He was by far, hands down, the best Daddy and Pa. He loved hard and he fought hard.”

Reba McEntire, Brandon Blackstock — Instagram

Likewise, Reba and Narvel’s son Shelby Blackstock detailed the special bond he had with his half-brother in his own touching message.

“He taught me so much, leaving behind countless cherished memories that I will hold onto forever,” the 35-year-old wrote on Instagram Aug. 8. “For every treasured moment we shared, there are so many more we’ll never get to make together, but I know you’ll still be there. Every hunt, every flight, and in the everyday moments of life, I’ll feel your presence.”

In response to Shelby’s statement, Reba echoed her son’s kind words, commenting under the post, “Very well said Shelby. Yes we will miss him so much.”

Brandon is survived by his adult kids Savannah and Seth, as well as children River Rose, 11, and Remington “Remy” Alexander, 9—who he shares with Kelly. He also has two grandchildren Lake and Julie.

For a look back at Brandon’s life in photos, keep reading.

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