Reba’s Son, Shelby Blackstock, Issues Statement Following His Brother Brandon’s Passing

Shelby & Brandon Blackstock (Instagram/Shelby Blackstock)

Shelby Blackstock Issues Statement Following His Brother’s Death

Brandon Blackstock, 48, passed away in Montana on August 7, 2025, after battling cancer for several years.

Blackstock’s family announced the news in a statement, saying:

“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.”

His younger half-brother, Shelby, took to social media to share some words in memory of Brandon, saying that he was an “irreplaceable” part of the family.

“Words cannot begin to capture the tremendous loss our family has endured. Yesterday, we lost a brother, a father, a grandfather, and a son,” Shelby lovingly wrote. “Brandon Blackstock was an irreplaceable part of our family—funny, bright, and full of life—and he will be deeply missed.”

He posted multiple photos of Brandon and his family in the carousel of photos, including their father, Narvel Blackstock.

“He taught me so much, leaving behind countless cherished memories that I will hold onto forever. 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,” Shelby shared.

Shelby is an American professional race car driver, born to country music superstar Reba McEntire and ex-husband Narvel.

Brandon was the stepson of Reba, who remained close to him despite her divorce from Narvel.

Brandon’s Loving Relationship With Ex-Stepmom Reba McEntire

Narvel was married to Reba for 26 years, from 1989 to 2015. He first joined Reba’s band in 1980 as a steel guitar player. At the time, both were married to other people, Reba to her first husband, Charlie Battles, and Narvel to his first wife, Elisa Gayle Ritter.

Reba and Charlie separated in 1987, and Narvel and Elisa divorced in 1988. The following year, in 1989, Reba and Narvel got married. Brandon was 12 years old at the time and just one year later, in 1990, Reba and Narvel welcomed Shelby.

Although not his biological mother, Reba has spoken warmly about her relationship with Brandon and her stepchildren, treating them as part of her family. Over the years, she remained involved in their lives even after her divorce from Narvel in 2015.

Brandon later went on to become a talent manager and notably married singer Kelly Clarkson in 2013. During their marriage, Reba expressed support for both Brandon and Kelly, but after their contentious divorce in 2021, Reba made it clear in interviews that she wanted to remain neutral, focusing on love and respect for both parties.
LAS VEGAS, NV – APRIL 07: Singers Kelly Clarkson (L) and Reba McEntire pose in the audience during the 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on April 7, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Kevin Winter/ACMA2013/Getty Images for ACM)