“One little girl will be making her arrival at the beginning of January.”
Brandon Blackstock’s brother, Reba McEntire’s son, Shelby Blackstock, is speaking out for the first time since Brandon’s death.
“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 began his statement.
“Brandon Blackstock was an irreplaceable part of our family—funny, bright, and full of life—and he will be deeply missed.”
Shelby said that his older brother “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.”
READ MORE: Brandon Blackstock’s death came weeks after 23-year-old daughter announced pregnancy
“And although it may annoy you, you’ll have to watch me do it all just a little better, a little smoother, and —let’s be honest— looking far more handsome than you ever could in the process,” Shelby joked.
“We will always miss you, Brandon, and we will never stop loving, remembering and celebrating you,” he concluded his note.
News of Brandon’s death was revealed to the public on August 7, one day after his ex-wife Kelly Clarkson announced the postponement of several of her Las Vegas residency shows.
People Magazine was the first to report Blackstock’s death. He was 48.
"It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away," a rep for the Blackstock family told People.
"Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years,” the statement continued. “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."
