Published: 00:16 BST, 27 August 2026 | Updated: 16:37 BST, 27 August 2026
Dolly Parton’s niece is paying tribute to the country music star following her death at age 80.
Parton’s nephew and head of security, Bryan Seaver, announced the news in a video message posted on social media on Tuesday. Now, his sister Rebecca Seaver is opening up about her relationship with her aunt who was the sister of her 75-year-old mother Cassie.
‘Today, the grief we feel is insurmountable because of the enormous amount of love we all have for Dolly Rebecca Parton,’ Seaver, 39, began in her emotional Instagram post.
Seaver shared a carousel of images with her followers, including plenty of pictures of herself as a child with the country music legend.
The snaps show Parton, who enjoyed a career spanning seven decades, in her younger years and looking glamorous as usual.
Dolly Parton ’s niece paid tribute to the country music star following her death at age 80 on Tuesday
Rebecca Seaver opened up about her relationship with her aunt in an Instagram post on Wednesday
The snaps with Seaver show Parton in her younger years and looking glamorous as usual
‘She has always been the light, not just for those directly in her orbit but for the entire world. We all wanted to be better versions of ourselves for her sake, and I hope we all continue to do just that,’ Seaver continued.
Other pictures in the carousel show how close Parton and Seaver were as adults.
The pair not only shared a professional bond, in addition to a personal one.
Seaver is the executive director of the Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum and established the Dolly Archive.
The archive features iconic costumes, awards and personal treasures to help make sure her cultural impact endures.
‘Today, I embark on a new journey: a life without my most trusted confidant,’ Seaver went on. ‘My best friend, my favorite adventurer, my name-giver, my godmother, my precious Aunt Granny.’
