Freida Parton Pays Emotional Tribute to Sister Dolly Parton, Recalling Their “Highs and Lows”
Freida Parton has spoken publicly for the first time about losing her sister, Dolly Parton.
Her heartfelt message arrived one day after the country music icon was laid to rest. Dolly’s private family funeral took place Friday, August 28, at Nashville’s Woodlawn Memorial Park, where she was buried alongside her husband, Carl Dean.
The 11th of the 12 Parton siblings, Freida is Dolly’s younger sister. She shared an extended remembrance detailing how profoundly Dolly shaped both her own life and the wider world.
“Thank you all for bearing with me as I mourn the death of my big sister,” Frieda began. “I know to the entire world, she was a superstar, but to me, she was my Dolly Momma.”
Freida described Dolly as a constant presence throughout her life—the person she could always count on whenever she needed comfort or support.
Freida continued, “She was the sister who would climb into bed with me when I was little because we were both afraid of the dark. She was the woman who stepped up and became my Momma, raising me from ages 13 to 18. She was the one who tried to convince me to wear her wigs at my shows in Dollywood (sorry, sister, but I definitely didn’t listen to you on that one).”
Their bond was not without conflict, as is true for many siblings. Still, the 69-year-old emphasized that no disagreement or difficult period ever permanently came between them.
“Like all sisters, we definitely had our share of arguments and disagreements throughout the years, but even through all the highs and lows, and all the laughter and tears, I never stopped loving her.”
Last October, after reports emerged that Dolly was experiencing health problems, Freida asked fans to keep the singer in their prayers. The seriousness of Dolly’s condition had not been publicly disclosed at that point.
Now, Freida is requesting prayers for herself and the entire Parton family as they cope with what she called an “insurmountable loss.”
“There will never be anyone who can replace her in our hearts, and I know she holds a special place in many of yours as well,” she added. “I know she would want me to keep going, keep smiling, and keep sharing the love she gave so freely with others. That is what I’m going to try to do, even on the days when it feels impossible.”
Near the close of her tribute, Freida disclosed that she is creating something “very special” for Dolly’s fans, although she offered no further information about the project.
“It’s my way of keeping a little piece of my Dolly Momma with me, while sharing her with all of you who loved her, too. Thank you for loving her, for praying for her, and now, for loving and praying for all of us.”
Remembering Dolly Parton’s life and legacy
Dolly died August 25 at age 80. Her team later announced that the country legend had faced a short battle with cancer.
Tributes have poured in from across the globe since her death. Among the entertainment figures honoring Dolly were her friends Carrie Underwood, Kevin Costner, and Reba McEntire.
Her influence was also recognized by international leaders, with the Royal Family among those commemorating her legacy.
An official obituary published on the website of Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home & Woodlawn Memorial Park celebrated Dolly for leading a “rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see.”
“Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family,” the obituary continued. “Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”