Brandon Blackstock, the late husband of Kelly Clarkson who died this week after a battle with cancer, appeared to enjoy time with his family -- including former stepmother Reba McEntire -- in the months before his death.

"Brandon Blackstock was an irreplaceable part of our family — funny, bright, and full of life — and he will be deeply missed," he said.

Reba McEntire has long talked about her close bond with her late stepson Brandon Blackstock. The "Fancy" singer was married to Brandon's father, Narvel Blackstock, prior to their divorce in 2015.