Brandon Blackstock, the ex-husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, was revealed to be in a romantic relationship with her former assistant Brittney Marie Jones at the time of his death from cancer, according to his newly published obituary. The disclosure came alongside the notable omission of Clarkson’s name from the tribute, though their two children were included.
Blackstock, a 48-year-old talent manager, died on August 7, 2025, after a three-year battle with melanoma at his home in Butte, Montana. His obituary, published days later, described Jones as his “beautiful and loving partner in life and business,” revealing they had been building companies together in Montana including Headwaters Livestock Auction and The Valley View Rodeo, which the obituary noted would stand as his legacy.
The relationship revelation is particularly noteworthy because Jones previously worked as Clarkson’s assistant while Blackstock managed the singer’s career. According to Jones’ LinkedIn profile cited in reports, she transitioned to working directly for Blackstock’s Montana cattle operation after Clarkson changed management teams. The nature of their relationship evolved from professional to personal during this period, with the obituary highlighting their shared entrepreneurial efforts.
Clarkson was conspicuously absent from the obituary despite her seven-year marriage to Blackstock (2013-2020) and having two children with him: 11-year-old River and 9-year-old Remington. The tribute did mention all four of Blackstock’s children – including Savannah (23) and Seth (18) from his first marriage – emphasizing they were “his greatest love and legacy.” This omission follows the couple’s contentious divorce that involved legal battles over property and custody arrangements.
The disclosure has drawn attention due to the complex personal dynamics involved. Clarkson reportedly remained protective of Blackstock for their children’s sake during his illness, with sources indicating she’s “devastated for the kids” following his death. Meanwhile, Blackstock had relocated to Montana after the divorce, purchasing a $1.8 million ranch where he launched new business ventures with Jones as his executive assistant.
Blackstock’s career spanned two decades in the music industry before he returned to his Montana roots to pursue ranching and rodeo. The obituary portrayed him as a “dreamer” devoted to his Western lifestyle ambitions. His businesses with Jones appear positioned to continue as part of his legacy, particularly The Valley View Rodeo in Bozeman.
Family members have shared tributes, with son Seth calling Blackstock his “best friend and hero” on social media. The family has requested privacy while mourning, noting Blackstock died “peacefully surrounded by loved ones” after his lengthy cancer battle. As the public processes these personal revelations, the focus remains on Blackstock’s children and the future of the enterprises he established in his final years.