Overview

• Silver Bow County Coroner Dan Hollis confirmed on Aug. 11 that Blackstock, 48, died of melanoma at his home in Butte, Montana, and listed the manner of death as natural causes.
• In a family obituary published on Aug. 12, Blackstock’s partner Brittney Marie Jones is described as his “beautiful and loving partner in life and business,” and their ventures include Headwaters Livestock Auction and The Valley View Rodeo.
• His family statement noted he passed away peacefully under hospice care after privately battling cancer for more than three years and asked for privacy as they grieve.
• Immediate tributes poured in on social media from eldest son Seth, first wife Melissa Ashworth, and former stepmother Reba McEntire to honor his life and legacy.
• Kelly Clarkson postponed the remainder of her August Las Vegas residency to focus on her children and has not issued further comment on Blackstock’s passing, while some outlets report—but have not independently confirmed—that Jones previously served as Clarkson’s assistant.