The world is mourning the loss of beloved country music star Dolly Parton, who died Aug. 25 at her home in Nashville, her nephew said in a video message. She was 80.
Her death comes a few weeks after she provided an update on her health in a video on Aug. 16 after she missed an event at Dollywood, telling fans, “Sometimes I get a little dizzy and I get dehydrated.”
The “Jolene” singer, who dealt with kidney stones earlier this year, also promised to keep active.
“All has gone well on the medical end of things, and I continue working away on all of our other projects,” she said.
Parton was a giant not just in country music, but entertainment as a whole, releasing her debut album, “Hello, I’m Dolly,” in 1967 before going on to win multiple Grammys and making the leap to the big screen, appearing in classics like the 1980 comedy “9 to 5” and 1989’s “Steel Magnolias.”
Here’s a look at how some famous friends are mourning her death.
Parton used to famously use her acrylic fingernails to create rhythm for her music, and that includes a time when she and Patti LaBelle did it on her variety show, “Dolly,” in the ‘80s.
In a statement to NBC News, LaBelle remembered Parton’s “artistry” and “extraordinary life.”
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend who was loved by all. Dolly’s artistry, brilliance, and extraordinary life inspired so many people, including me. Her light will forever shine! I send my deepest condolences to all of her loved ones and fans all over the world!”
Fellow country music legend and close friend Reba McEntire penned a tribute on X.
“Well, I just got the news that my buddy Dolly passed onto the higher and greater side,” she began. “Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart.”
She continued, “There will never ever be another you. We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang.”
McEntire said she knows Parton will be in heaven singing her favorite songs with all her loved ones.
“I’ll never forget the first time I met you and I’ll never forget our last conversation. I hold it with love in my heart. I will always love you, Reba,” she concluded.
Jenna Bush Hager, who spoke with Parton on several occasions in interviews for TODAY, posted photos to Instagram on Aug. 25, along with a heartfelt message. Two of the photos show Jenna with Dolly during a conversation they had in Dollywood in 2019. At the time, Jenna said, her grandmother Jenna Welch had just passed away.
