Under the gray Texas sky, grief hung heavy over Fort Worth’s First Baptist Church. At exactly 9 a.m., mourners gathered as the white steeple rose into the dim light, lilies and roses scenting the air. A gleaming walnut coffin waited, holding Brandon Blackstock — father, husband, and music manager — his expression peaceful in a black suit.
Before the service, Kelly Clarkson paused at the church steps, trembling as she took the microphone. Her tear-rimmed eyes flicked toward her children before she whispered, “Let me sing him a song… to comfort my mother and my children.” Her voice, fragile yet resolute, filled the cold morning with “I Will Always Love You.”
Blake Shelton stood beside her, eyes wet beneath his hat, while Michael Bublé’s hand rested on her shoulder in silent support. Inside, the melody drifted to the casket where Reba McEntire, veiled and weeping, knelt. Her fingers traced the polished wood as she whispered her goodbyes — a moment etched forever in the hearts of all who stood witness.
