India, Aug. 8 -- Kelly Clarkson is devastated and worried for her children after her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock's death. The American Idol alum's statement came hours after it was revealed that Blackstock was battling cancer for three years and passed away 'surrounded by his family'. He was 48.

"It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time," a rep said in a statement to People.

Page Six cited a source to report that Blackstock had recently been in hospice. ...