Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband, was revealed to be in a relationship with her former assistant Brittney Marie Jones at the time of his death, according to his obituary. The obituary highlighted their partnership in building Montana-based businesses while omitting any mention of Clarkson.
Brandon Blackstock, a former music manager and ex-husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, passed away on August 7, 2025, after a three-year battle with melanoma. His obituary, published days later, disclosed his relationship with Brittney Marie Jones, who previously worked as Clarkson’s assistant during their marriage. The document described Jones as Blackstock’s ‘beautiful and loving partner in life and business’ but made no reference to Clarkson.
The couple had been collaborating on business ventures in Bozeman, Montana, including founding the Headwaters Livestock Auction and establishing The Valley View Rodeo, which the obituary noted would become his legacy. This marked a career shift for Blackstock, who spent two decades in the music industry before embracing what was termed ‘the cowboy way of life.’
Jones had worked under Blackstock’s management while assisting Clarkson in Los Angeles. After Clarkson ended her professional relationship with Blackstock during their 2020 divorce, Jones transitioned to become his executive assistant in Montana. Her LinkedIn profile indicated she handled both business operations and personal tasks for Blackstock, though the romantic nature of their relationship hadn’t been public before the obituary.
The omission of Clarkson from the tribute drew attention, though it mentioned all four of Blackstock’s children—including his two children with Clarkson (River and Remington). Clarkson is reportedly ‘devastated for the kids’ but had remained protective of Blackstock during his illness for their sake. The news surfaces amid ongoing adjustments following Clarkson and Blackstock’s contentious 2022 divorce settlement.
This revelation highlights Blackstock’s post-divorce life and reframes public understanding of his final years. It also underscores the complex personal dynamics between Clarkson, her former spouse, and her ex-employee. The Valley View Rodeo and other Montana ventures are expected to continue as part of Blackstock’s legacy.
For Clarkson, the focus remains on supporting her children through their loss. No public statement has been made by Clarkson or Jones regarding the obituary’s disclosures. The business projects Blackstock started with Jones will proceed, preserving his vision in Montana’s ranching community.
