Kelly Clarkson ‘Staying Strong’ but Is ‘Heartbroken’ for Her Kids After Ex Brandon Blackstock’s Death: Source

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Kelly Clarkson is putting her children first as they cope with the loss of their father, Brandon Blackstock.

A source tells PEOPLE that the 43-year-old singer is doing her best to “stay strong” for her two children, daughter River Rose, 11, and son Remington Alexander, 9. At the same time, she is reportedly “heartbroken” for what they are going through following Blackstock’s death.

“Kelly and Brandon had their ups and downs, but at the end of the day, he was the father of her children,” the source said. “Her kids are her entire world, and she’s staying strong for their sake.”

Blackstock died from cancer on Aug. 7 at age 48, according to a statement from his family’s representative. He had privately battled the disease for more than three years and died peacefully surrounded by family. His loved ones also asked for privacy during the difficult time.

Following his death, another source said Clarkson was “devastated” for her children, especially after learning that their father had been seriously ill. The source said Clarkson remained protective of Blackstock for the sake of their kids and tried to handle the situation privately and respectfully.

Earlier this year, Clarkson revealed that Blackstock had been ill when she announced the postponement of her Las Vegas residency. She explained that she needed to be fully present for their two children while their father was dealing with his illness.

Although Clarkson has generally kept her personal life private, her decisions during this difficult period have shown how deeply her children remain at the center of her priorities.