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Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband Brandon Blackstock died on Aug. 7 at age 48

A source tells PEOPLE she has been "devastated" for the two children she and Blackstock share

"She always wanted her kids to have the best relationship possible with their dad," the source says of Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson continues to prioritize her two children after the death of their father, Brandon Blackstock .

A source tells PEOPLE that the singer-songwriter has “been devastated” for her kids River, 11, and Remington, 9 , as their dad, who died on Thursday, Aug. 7 at age 48, faced cancer for three years privately.

“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” the source says. “Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this y

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