Brandon Blackstock's First Wife, Melissa Ashworth, Shares Heartbreaking Tribute After His Death

Melissa Ashworth has shared a glimpse into her memories of Brandon Blackstock, offering a few carefully chosen words that capture both his spirit and their shared history.

Melissa Ashworth, the first wife of Brandon Blackstock, mourned his death on Saturday, August 9, 2025, with a deeply personal and emotional tribute. She remembered him as a devoted father, grandfather, and man of faith.

Ashworth took to Instagram to share a personal reflection on her years with Blackstock, tracing their journey back to their 1999 wedding. She described him as a man whose charm and presence were matched by his deep devotion to family, a steadfast character who embraced life with both warmth and determination.

Ashworth further expressed that Blackstock's enduring legacy for their children, Savannah and Seth, and their grandchildren lies in the strength of his faith. She closed her message with gratitude to friends and loved ones for the support shown during this difficult time.

The tribute prompted an outpouring of support on social media. One person wrote, "Heartbreaking. I've prayed for you and your children today. I thought about those HCA days…. Those were some sweet years. Stay strong, my friend."

Another shared, "What a sweet encouraging word to remember Brandon. Prayers for all of you during this difficult time my friend [sic]." Many described Ashworth's message as moving and heartfelt. "Melissa, this is such a beautiful tribute to Brandon! My prayers are with you and your children!" one commenter said.

Others extended prayers for Savannah and Seth. One said, "Praying for you Melissa. Praying for you kids, Savannah and Seth aa they navigate a world without their dad [sic]," while another added, "Thinking of you and your babies. Sending love and Peace."

After his marriage to Ashworth, Blackstock married and divorced singer Kelly Clarkson. He shared two children with her before his death. Now, his first wife's words stand alongside the public confirmation of his passing, which revealed the private health battle he had been fighting for more than three years.

Blackstock passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the age of 48, following a battle with cancer that once led to the postponement of several major concert dates. His family confirmed his death and noted the strength he showed throughout his illness. They also requested privacy as they grieved.

A day before his passing, Clarkson shared publicly that Blackstock had been battling a serious illness and announced she would pause her Las Vegas residency to be with their children, 11-year-old River Rose and nine-year-old Remington Alexander. She also addressed her fans, expressing regret over the change in plans.

Clarkson met Blackstock in May 2006 during preparations for the Academy of Country Music Awards. He was still married to Ashworth at that time. Years later, in a 2013 interview with People, Clarkson reflected on that meeting as a moment that left a lasting impression on her.

Following his separation from Ashworth, Blackstock reunited with Clarkson at the 2012 Super Bowl, and their relationship quickly progressed to an engagement later that year. They were married in October 2013 in a ceremony held on a farm in Tennessee.

Clarkson even used her song "Piece by Piece" to express her feelings for Blackstock. She used the song to capture how his presence restored a sense of trust and security she had missed in her past.

In 2020, after seven years together, Clarkson ended their marriage. The court filings obtained by People indicated that the marriage had broken beyond repair.

The separation happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Clarkson, Blackstock, and their children were staying at their Montana ranch. During that time, she also produced multiple episodes of her talk show from the property.

Their divorce was finalized two years later. In 2023, Clarkson spoke about their separation, noting that it had been a gradual decision rather than an abrupt one. She reflected on entering the marriage with the hope of building a lasting and fulfilling life together, though things did not unfold as she had envisioned.

Blackstock's passing marks the end of a chapter not only for his family but also for those who knew him through his work and personal relationships. From his early years with Ashworth to his high-profile marriage to Clarkson, his life was intertwined with moments of love, family, and faith.