Celebrities Pay Tribute to Dolly Parton Following Her Passing at 80
Hollywood is grieving following the passing of iconic country music artist and actress Dolly Parton.
“A glamorous life that gleamed brightly for all to witness, Dolly will eternally be a beacon of inspiration not only through her ageless music and remarkable songwriting, but also her humor, warmth, and compassion that made us all feel like family,” stated Parton’s representative. “Dolly Parton’s influence is one of love, empathy, and strength. Her songs will continue to resonate with individuals of all generations, and her charitable endeavors will leave an enduring legacy.”
While the cause of death has not been disclosed, Parton’s team confirmed that the 9 to 5 star passed away peacefully in Nashville on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 80.
A small, intimate service will be conducted for family members at a future date.
In place of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that provides free, high-quality books to children from birth to age 5, regardless of their family’s income.
Numerous actors and performers swiftly paid tribute to Parton on social media. Continue reading for heartfelt messages from Kacey Musgraves, Reba McEntire, and other stars.
Anne Hathaway
Anne Hathaway penned a touching tribute to Parton via Instagram, sharing a series of videos and images showcasing the country legend through the years.
“Dolly 💔Oh dear … Heaven has just welcomed one of its own back. Okay, my loves, I know this is difficult, but let’s remember: she left us so many gifts. She shared a multitude of melodies, lyrics, stories, laughs, and iconic performances, but above all, shining examples of how to be a true gem of humanity,” Hathaway expressed to her followers.
She added, “She absolutely deserves her rest, and now it’s our responsibility to follow in her brilliant, charming, one-of-a-kind bedazzled footsteps so we can continue to experience that magic in our world. Dolly, you have always been one of my angels. My love for you will be everlasting xx.”
Taylor Swift
“Imagining a world without Dolly feels impossible, unreal, or just plain wrong. But due to the endlessly generous way she spent her life and the countless lives she uplifted, her legacy will be timeless,” Taylor Swift shared in a statement to Us.
Jane Fonda
“I’m heartbroken. I just found out that Dolly has passed on,” 9 to 5 star Jane Fonda posted on Instagram. “I realize that millions are in mourning, and I want to express this: more than anyone I have ever known, Dolly will always be with us because she was so present, so powerful, so generous, and playful that she’s woven into our lives and hearts forever.”
Paul McCartney
“The brilliant star Dolly Parton has departed, and it is heartbreaking. She was such a remarkable woman,” Paul McCartney shared on his website. “I first met her in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry, where she had been performing with country star Porter Wagoner and was on the brink of launching her solo career. She was effervescent and full of life; it’s hard to absorb the news of her passing. Her songwriting and philanthropy were unparalleled in the world of country music, and it’s difficult to imagine a world without Dolly.”
He continued, “She was a savvy businesswoman who recognized the value of her music and, most significantly, the impact she had on countless people. There was no greater honor for me than to have her sing my song Let It Be, and even though I contributed just a small part to it, I am incredibly honored she did. I’m proud to have known her and to admire her extraordinary talents.”
“Thank you, Dolly, for the beautiful music you gave to me and the entire world. We will always adore you, god bless, and rest in peace. You were exceptional,” McCartney concluded.
Elton John
“I’m shocked and devastated to hear of Dolly’s passing. An extraordinary artist — unique and irreplaceable, with an incredibly kind heart,” Elton John stated in an Instagram Stories post.
Pitbull
Pitbull honored Parton during his concert on Tuesday, August 25, at the Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York, performing her classic hit “9 to 5” for the audience.
“There was someone who showed me love and believed in me when many didn’t — that was Dolly Parton,” he shared onstage, as captured via Instagram. “She lived an incredible life. A hardworking, intelligent, sophisticated, funny, and strong woman, but above all, a genuinely good human being with a big heart.”
Barbra Streisand
“I’m so saddened to hear about Dolly – she was an unstoppable force. May she rest in peace 😢,” Barbra Streisand wrote via Instagram.
Jason Earles
Hannah Montana star Jason Earles posted a nostalgic throwback picture with Parton, who had a recurring role on the Disney Channel series, via Instagram.
“I’m reflecting on all the wonderful things I’ve heard about Dolly,” Earles, who portrayed the older brother of Cyrus’ Montana on the show, began. “Her successes, every personal anecdote, all the tributes people have shared today … and collectively, they barely capture how truly amazing she was.”
He continued, “I’m so thankful I got to call her Aunt Dolly on the show. But the truth is, no matter who you were, she always made you feel like family. I’ve been a fan my entire life, and I will always cherish the little time I spent with her. I send my love to everyone else out there feeling the loss of our Aunt Dolly.”
Carrie Underwood
“She’s not truly gone,” Carrie Underwood wrote via Instagram, accompanying a series of photos of the two during happier times. “I know exactly where she is. She embodied faith, grace, talent, beauty, and humor. With a heart humble before Jesus, she made everyone around her feel cherished. She was likely the one person on Earth that everyone adored and agreed on. She was truly one of a kind, and nobody will ever measure up. It’s okay to feel sad that this world lost a legend, but heaven has gained an angel. Well done, good and faithful Dolly. Welcome home. ❤️🦋.”
Connie Britton
“Today, I keep having conversations with Dolly in my head like I did back in those Nashville days at the Ryman until I finally got to meet her in 2022,” Connie Britton began her heartfelt message. “So today, I’ve been telling her what a remarkable inspiration and gift she has been to me and so many.”
“And she replies, ‘You know, darling, God is in you. Embrace and love every part of yourself. Shine as only you can. Use everything you’ve been given, and where you’ve come from. And share it generously, with joy, honesty, fun, and service.’ At least, that’s what she’s communicating to me. Thank you, Dolly.”
Britton also referenced the recent passing of her former Nashville co-star Hayden Panettiere, concluding her post, “This week, heaven is indeed receiving so many blonds. 💔.”
Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter reminisced about her dearest memories of the beloved music icon, writing, “Oh Dolly 💔 after we first met, all I could say was ‘she truly is an angel walking the earth’ and ‘we look like we could be sisters!’ I will treasure our laughs and conversations and keep your wisdom, your playful approach to life, and your impeccable humor close for those rainy days. There will never be another you, and we are all so fortunate to have experienced your singular magic as well as your extraordinary voice, songs, and heart. Your light will be something the world will forever seek to rediscover 🦋🦋🦋 I will always love you.”
Kacey Musgraves
“Dolly. This is such a deep hurt,” country singer Kacey Musgraves expressed via X. “The world feels significantly less sparkly all of a sudden. I’m glad she’s with her [late husband] Carl Dean. Please don’t talk to me today.”
Kelsea Ballerini
“Thank you, my East Tennessee angel, for every ounce of magic and butterflies, acceptance and joy, heart and music you brought to this world,” country singer Kelsea Ballerini expressed via her Instagram Story. “We will always love you, Dolly.”
Reba McEntire
“I just received the news that my dear friend Dolly has moved onto a higher and greater place. Thank you, Dolly, for all the wonderful things you did for us here on Earth. Your love, your music, and your generous heart left an indelible mark. There will never be another you,” Reba McEntire wrote via Instagram. “We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang. Thank you, Lord, for Dolly. She’s going to have an amazing time in heaven singing all her favorite songs with her family and friends who have preceded her. I’ll never forget our first meeting or our last conversation. I hold it with love in my heart. I will always love you, Reba.”
Seth MacFarlane
“The news of Dolly Parton’s passing is heartbreaking. I had the incredible opportunity to work with her on The Orville, and it was a joy to learn she was everything we all hoped she would be,” Seth MacFarlane shared via X. “Her kindness, generosity, and authenticity were clear from the very start, and the gentle yet firm control she held over her empire was evident in the genuine affection and trust displayed by her team. The world feels a bit dimmer today without her.”
Meghan McCain
“Dolly Parton was an absolute American icon and legend. Unique in her impact, love, talent, music, kindness, passion, and strength. There has never been nor will there ever be another like her. It’s hard to articulate what a loss this is for America; she possessed the rare ability to genuinely unite and connect all through her music, art, light, and spirit,” former co-host of The View, Meghan McCain shared via X. “On a personal note, she was by far the kindest, warmest, and friendliest celebrity I have ever had the pleasure to meet. Whenever asked about the highlights of my time at The View, I always mention meeting Dolly Parton. Her famous quote ~ ‘The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you’ve got to endure the rain’ has been my guiding light through many difficult moments and grief in life. I am deeply saddened by this news as a huge fan. We will love you forever, Dolly.”
Khloé Kardashian
“My sweet Dolly. You are reunited with your husband, whom I know you missed deeply. I also know you are in the embrace of your creator! God has you in His arms forever and always. Thank you for EVERYTHING,” Khloé Kardashian expressed via her Instagram Story. “Some individuals are so extraordinary, their existence feels almost implausible. Dolly was one of those people.”
The Kardashians star continued, “A once-in-a-lifetime soul. A woman whose brilliance, heart, talent, and humanity transformed this world forever. To have admired her was a gift. To have met her, to have spent time in her presence, and to have been fortunate enough that Dolly Parton knew my name … I will never have words grand enough for what that signifies to me. What an extraordinary human being. What a legacy. What a significant loss. There will never be another Dolly.”
Keke Palmer
“I’m heartbroken. Truly,” actress Keke Palmer remarked via Instagram after receiving the news.
President Donald Trump
“I am very saddened to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest country singers, and a true legend in every sense, has just passed away. This is a tremendous loss for millions,” President Donald Trump shared via TruthSocial. “There has never been anyone like her, nor will there ever be. In her honor, I will lower the American flag across the country for one week, starting tonight at 6:00 PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The world loves you. President DONALD J. TRUMP.”
Barack Obama
“It’s difficult to conceive of many individuals having a greater influence than Dolly Parton,” the former president expressed via X. “From a humble one-room cabin, she achieved 11 Grammys and an Emmy, built a successful business empire, helped millions of children learn to read, and — as if that weren’t enough — assisted in the research that led to the Moderna COVID vaccine. What a remarkable life. Michelle and I are thinking of Dolly’s family and her many, many fans.”
George W. Bush
“Laura and I, alongside thousands of her fans, mourn Dolly Parton’s passing,” the 43rd president of the United States wrote via Instagram. “We adored her music and presence. She was not only a wonderful entertainer but an even greater person. We admired her commitment to literacy, health promotion, and community support. Dolly was a talented and dedicated American who will be sorely missed.”
Andy Cohen
“🦋 💔 We were truly lucky to have lived alongside her and experienced her music, kindness, and joy. 💔 🦋,” Andy Cohen shared via Instagram.
Jenna Bush Hager
“As I write this, Dolly’s music is playing in the restaurant I am at. She was a legend. Her voice was unmatched, yet it was her pure originality and spirit that we will truly miss,” Today show co-host Jenna Bush Hager wrote via Instagram. “We all needed her sparkle and goodness. She gave everything she was. In this photo of us, I just received word that my grandmother, Jenna, had passed away. I was already in Knoxville, and she held me with such grace. That kindness will forever stay with me. May we carry just a fraction of her beauty forward.”
Lily Tomlin
“Friend. Songwriter. The Great Harmonizer of Humanity. Dolly. Dolly. Dolly. Forever Dolly,” 9 to 5 actress Lily Tomlin shared via X.
Rosie O’Donnell
“This earth angel has returned to heaven from whence she came — heartbroken 💔 #iwillalwaysloveyou,” comedian Rosie O’Donnell noted via Instagram.
Pedro Pascal
“One of a kind 💔. We must create more. #DollyParton #Love,” actor Pedro Pascal stated via Instagram.
Dionne Warwick
“I will greatly miss her laughter, her jokes, and her presence,” singer Dionne Warwick conveyed via X. “Rest peacefully, my friend. My heart feels heavy.”
Paris Hilton
“My heart is shattered upon hearing about Queen @DollyParton’s passing. She was an authentic icon and an inspiration to me,” Paris Hilton wrote via X. “Her talent, heart, and generosity touched countless lives, and she genuinely left the world better than she found it. I’m sending all my love to her family, friends, and everyone who cherished her. Rest in peace, Dolly.”
Kristin Chenoweth
“Like everyone else, I’m utterly heartbroken. I had the privilege of meeting Dolly on several occasions, and she always made me feel like family,” actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth remarked via Instagram. “She even agreed to sing with me on one of my records. My ultimate inspiration. The world has lost one of the greatest, yet we will never forget her for she is unforgettable. I love you, Dolly, and I will ALWAYS love you 💔🌈🦋.”
Jamie Lee Curtis
“They say not to meet your heroes. But they were wrong about her. Her courage to recognize that she was more than what others perceived her as, and her need to evolve into new work and new paths led her to write ‘I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU’ as her farewell thank you while moving on,” actress Jamie Lee Curtis noted via Instagram. “She serves as a remarkable example for us all.”
Sally Field
“If angels indeed walk among us, we have just lost one: Dolly Parton,” Steel Magnolias star Sally Field shared via Instagram. “There will never be another like her. I adored her completely and will forever treasure our time together, forever. Rest in peace, beautiful Dolly.”
Maggie Rogers
“💔One of the greatest songwriters of all time, a beautiful, radiant butterfly of a human,” singer Maggie Rogers wrote via Instagram. “I had the pleasure of performing with her at Newport once, and I felt my heart ablaze. My admiration for her is beyond measure. Thank you a million times, Dolly.”
Mark Wystrach
“I’m grateful for the time I spent with you and for the chance to express how much your music meant to my mom, my siblings, and me as we grew up,” Midland lead singer Mark Wystrach shared via Instagram. “Thank you for the music. Rest in peace, Dolly. ‘Eagle When She Flies’ was the tune that helped my mom through the loss of her mother. It was their favorite song, shared as an unspoken pact.”
Kathie Lee Gifford
“I am completely shattered by the loss of my dear friend, Dolly. She was a constant source of encouragement and love every day I needed it,” former talk show host Kathie Lee Gifford wrote via X. “That’s what I remember most… I wish more people in the world would live by the example Dolly set: to be kind, loving, and steadfast. I will miss her for the rest of my life.”
Blake Shelton
“I can say with complete certainty that we all share the same heartbreak today,” country singer Blake Shelton remarked via X. “I only truly spent real time with Dolly while Gwen [Stefani] and I were working with her on The Voice. I want everyone to understand that she was exactly the person you believe her to be. It felt as if I were with the most fun, loving, and caring person — a member of your family. This is truly a loss for the entire world. We love you, Dolly.”
Kelly Clarkson
“Dolly Parton had a unique way of making everyone feel valued, seen, welcomed, and as if you were lifelong friends,” The Voice coach Kelly Clarkson expressed via X. “I will miss her heart and her voice, as will millions. She was an incredible gift and talent, leaving behind an amazing legacy of art for all of us.”
Ivanka Trump
“A couple of years ago, during an episode of @lexfridman podcast, I quoted a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated with me since the first time I heard it. ‘I don’t criticize or condemn; I love and accept.’ That quote, along with so much else about Dolly Parton’s legacy, was deceptively simple — superficially uncomplicated but profoundly moving beneath the surface,” Ivanka Trump wrote via X. “Farewell to a vibrant light. An unparalleled singer, exceptional songwriter, gifted comic actress, tireless philanthropist, accomplished businesswoman, and true original. We may have never met, but I admired and adored Dolly tremendously.”
Bill Clinton
“Dolly Parton was one of a kind — an extraordinary songwriter and performer who conveyed the stories of everyday Americans with authenticity, humility, and warmth. She rose from her East Tennessee roots and forever honored her beginnings,” former President Bill Clinton wrote via X. “And she consistently advocated for giving back, especially in promoting literacy. Hillary and I were devoted fans and first saw her 1974, and will always appreciate the music and the memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, her legion of fans, and everyone who loved her.”
Carly Pearce
“I’ve often pondered, ‘What will the world be without Dolly?’ Since I was a little girl, I wished to emulate her. At 15, my family changed their lives so I could begin pursuing my dreams, working in the country show at Dollywood. Since then, I’ve had the fortune of not only working with Dolly but also getting to know her,” country singer Carly Pearce shared via Instagram. “She was precisely who we all hoped she would be — kind, hilarious, gracious, and utterly unique. Today, heaven received an extra dash of sass, humor, and brightness. I pledge to continue to radiate the light she so brightly cast for all of us. I love you, Dolly. 🦋 – forever your little Dollywood girl.”
Trace Adkins
“Seldom does the world, as a whole, express sorrow for someone’s departure,” country singer Trace Adkins shared via Instagram. “I knew her to be the angel that many believed she was, and I will miss her profoundly. Dolly, I will always love you.”
Keith Urban
“I’m heartbroken today. Dolly Parton,” country singer Keith Urban expressed via his Instagram Story. “Honestly… I can’t find the words right now.”
Brad Paisley
“I never imagined this day would arrive. Getting to know Dolly was transformative, not solely for me but for everyone,” country singer Brad Paisley wrote via Instagram. “She seemed immortal. And in the spirit of our collaboration on this song, I believe she is. It won’t be the same down here without you, Dolly. But your legacy of goodness and art will resonate with all of us. Farewell, hero. We will always love you.”
Billy Ray Cyrus
Billy Ray Cyrus, who named Parton as the godmother to his daughter Miley Cyrus, honored the singer via Instagram.
“I carry so many moments and memories with Dolly; it’s challenging to determine where to begin,” he recalled. “Like every boy, I grew up adoring Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, brightly shining through our TVs in the living room.”
He continued, “In 1992, I’ll forever remember walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories claiming I was involved with her. In typical Dolly style, she simply looked at me, winked, and quipped, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!’”
Billy Ray concluded, “Dolly recently shared a heartfelt message with me, conveying her deep love. I will always share that love … completely … and I always will.”
Kamala Harris
Former Vice President Kamala Harris penned a moving tribute via Instagram.
“Dolly Parton was a genuine American icon. Introduced to the world as a ‘little girl from up in East Tennessee,’ she ascended to global superstardom,” she conveyed. “Her accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and — my favorite — more than 300 million books delivered to millions of children around the globe through her Imagination Library. She was kind, modest, and humorous all at once. Through her music, philanthropy, and style, Dolly was truly one of a kind.”
Harris concluded, “Doug and I send our prayers to her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her magic. We will forever love you, Dolly.”
Katy Perry
“Like everyone else, my heart plummeted upon hearing news of dear Dolly’s passing. She has meant so much to countless people for so long,” Katy Perry expressed via Instagram. “For me, she represented a woman who shattered stereotypes for decades. She proved that a voluptuous figure, intelligence, and a powerful voice could coexist in one petite body! But her most significant trait was without a doubt her generous heart. I had the privilege of meeting and performing alongside her multiple times. Every time I saw Dolly, she radiated pure joy, with an essence that was sweet yet not overly saccharine.”
She added, “Her comedic perspective on life has consistently inspired me… If there’s someone to look up to and emulate, it’s Dolly. Dolly was glamorous, humorous, and unapologetically kind. Her star will forever shine brightly, and I’m certain she’s already decorating those pearly gates with rhinestones. We will always love you, Dolly!”
Celine Dion
Celine Dion issued her tribute to Parton via X.
“Dolly … you were pure light, with a beautiful heart and a generous spirit. We will now miss one of the most joyful voices the world has ever known,” she tweeted. “Thank you for the music, the laughter, and the love you gave us all. We will always love you. Rest in peace, Dolly.”
Brandi Carlile
“Dolly exchanged her butterfly wings today. I sensed her departure all week and have been singing ‘Coat Of Many Colors’ alongside I’m With Her and encouraging folks to pray daily. I can’t quite explain it,” Brandi Carlile reflected in an Instagram statement. “She once cradled my face in her hands and prayed for me. I haven’t been the same since. Her prayers might hold more power than any others, as that prayer has a long, colorful halo, and I hope it lasts my entire life.”
Eminem
Eminem shared a copy of the letter that Parton sent him upon his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
“I regret we never had the opportunity to meet, but receiving this note from Dolly really impacted me,” he shared on Instagram. “She didn’t have to take the time to do that. Even as a kid who mainly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense. Rest peacefully, Dolly. Thank you for your kind words.”
Vicki Lawrence
“Imagining a world without Dolly is incredibly difficult. This is so tragic. What a wonderful person,” Vicki Lawrence, who starred alongside Parton on Hannah Montana, remarked via Instagram. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have met her on Miley’s show. Work hardly seems fitting to describe such a special memory with an extraordinarily special person.”
Jeremy Jordan
Broadway actor Jeremy Jordan starred alongside Parton in Joyful Noise as her grandson.
“It took me many years to recognize how extraordinarily fortunate I was that Dolly Parton was the first significant celebrity I ever had the pleasure of working with,” Jordan shared via social media. “Joyful Noise was my debut film, and the moment she entered the room, the atmosphere brightened, and that glow lingered long after she exited. She radiated contagious happiness. She conversed with everyone, regardless of who they were. She didn’t have to, but she took the time to engage with my family on set.”
He added, “She had special nicknames for me, and she wrote a song that I got to perform WITH HER. I kept having to remind myself that none of this was typical. But it WAS for her. In her presence, everyone felt like family, deserving of love, time, and music. Thank you, Dolly, for the gift of your music, and even more for the example you’ve set for so many. There will never be another like you.”
Jessie James Decker
“Whenever I was asked about what Dolly Parton was like, my response was consistently the same: just as you would dream she would be, yet somehow even more,” Jessie James Decker shared via Instagram. “Kind, sweet, loving, radiating charm, grace, and heartfelt compassion. They say not to meet your heroes, but I disagree with that sentiment. Dolly was everything you wished for and more.”
Miley Cyrus
Parton’s goddaughter Miley Cyrus offered her tribute via Instagram.
“The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly transcends what feels right to articulate. Our most sacred moments were shared in private, behind the stage, beneath the glitz, and within our hearts,” Cyrus expressed. “What I KNOW is that Dolly would want me to embrace this feeling, compose a song about it, and continue to be strong. I have an angel by my side. I always have. One of our last discussions revolved around music and transformation.”
She concluded, “I will always love her and strive to make her proud. My heart aches for the world and her family and friends who will miss her dearly. We’re all in this together, and we will see her in all the most beautiful things.”
Annie Bosko
“The whole world’s heart is shattered. 💔 I’ve seen butterflies all day, and I can’t stop thinking about @dollyparton 😭🦋 Two things are for sure: Dolly is reunited with her beloved husband, Carl Dean, and Heaven just received the ultimate angel,” country singer Annie Bosko shared via Instagram.
“There was only one Dolly — and there will never be another. Her talent was unmatched, but it was her faith, generosity, courage, humor, and abundant heart that made her extraordinary. I feel incredibly blessed to have attended the opening night of her musical. It will astound the world and guarantee that her incredible story will continue to inspire generations to come. I’m also profoundly honored to have been chosen to open for her at Caesars Palace — a dream that I will forever hold dear to my heart.”
Richard Marx
“This afternoon I stumbled upon this photo from 1984. It’s from a session in LA at a studio owned by Kenny Rogers called Lion Share. From left to right, there’s David Foster, Kenny, Olivia Newton-John, James Ingram, Dolly, and me. Coincidentally, I had dinner with David tonight and showed him the photo,” Richard Marx wrote via Instagram. “We both remembered the day. Then it struck me, and I said, ‘As of today, everyone here except you and me is gone.’ I feel so blessed to have known and collaborated with some truly gifted and legendary individuals. While acknowledging their loss as I approach my sixty-third birthday, I think of Warren Zevon’s final wisdom: ‘Enjoy every sandwich.’”
Noah Cyrus
Noah honored Parton in a heartfelt post featuring a video of Miley singing alongside her godmother.
“I wanted the first words you heard to come from Miley, and now that she’s spoken, I’d like to share a few words about Dolly,” Noah wrote via Instagram. “Dolly was singular, one of a kind. She was a vibrant rainbow in our world for nearly six decades, and no one could ever replace her. Her impact on the world and on me as an artist is unparalleled. She was an angel among us, who not only wrote songs that spoke to us all, but whose kindness, compassion, and empathy towards those in genuine need were foundational to who Dolly was.”
Noah continued, “She never forgot her roots, and she consistently remained true to herself. She made it her mission to support others, not only through her music but also through her kindness and commitment to helping those in need.”
Noah shared that Parton’s “beautiful relationship” with her family, especially with Miley, is a bond she will cherish “for her entire life.”
“I am profoundly grateful to her for motivating me to embrace who I am, wear those wigs, flaunt those long nails, write my narratives, and heal others through music,” Noah shared. “I am heartbroken by her physical absence, but she truly is not gone. She graced this world, shared her light, and changed it forever. Her spirit will forever reside in our hearts, and her music will continue to be a source of companionship in solitude and joy in celebration. It will inspire and empower future songwriters who will discover and learn from the Great Dolly Parton.”
In reference to Parton’s iconic lyrics, Noah concluded, “Dolly, you’ve found your wings. We will ALWAYS love you.”
Lainey Wilson
“My Dolly. 💛 It felt like you were my friend before we even met… you made everyone feel that way. But once we became friends, oh did we have much to discuss… I’m incredibly glad you reached out a couple of weeks back,” Wilson wrote on Instagram on August 27.
Wilson recalled Parton sharing insights about her relationship with Devlin “Duck” Hodges.
“Our conversationably focused on the industry, the sacrifices involved, how special Carl Dean was to you, and how vital Duck is to me. You expressed that ‘while it’s fantastic that Duck allows you to be yourself, you also need to allow Duck to be himself,’” she recounted.
Wilson added that they also discussed spirituality and the music business during their last exchange.
“You also advised me to take my time reviewing the book of Revelation and suggested returning to Psalms for a moment to gather myself,” Wilson recalled. “We discussed our mutual belief in being called into this industry, and you expressed that you felt your journey wasn’t over. My dear friend, you are not done. The love and light you radiated during your lifetime is a type that never disappears. I’m grateful that God bestowed this gift upon you, you chose to share it, and God permitted us the joy of your company. I look forward to seeing you again, and I know that when I hug you in heaven someday, you will still remind me, ‘Don’t mess up your hair, Lainey girl.’ I will always love you, my friend. 💛🦋.
