Dolly Parton’s younger sister Stella Parton released a heartfelt tribute on Aug. 27, opening up about the final days of the country music legend, who passed away at age 80 on Aug. 25. According to USA Today, Stella wrote on social media: ‘My big sister Dolly got her wings this past Tuesday. If anyone gets to heaven I’m sure she made it right on time. I know she’s showing out big time, in all her sparkles and shine. That was my sister’s way.’

Emotional Morning Rituals and Final Days

Stella detailed a cherished morning tradition the sisters shared. Every Tuesday before sunrise, they would speak on the phone while drinking coffee, catching up on gossip and making plans. ‘Being little farm girls we’ve continued to be early risers. As she liked to say: ‘shoot Tedda we get more work done before the sun comes up than most folks do all day long!’

Stella also spoke about Dolly’s generosity and kindness. ‘My sister was one of the most generous, thoughtful and kind people,’ she wrote. ‘Lo that the world saw is exactly how she was.’ According to Fox News, Dolly had been battling cancer in secret and had been willing to try experimental treatments to help others, even if there was no hope for her own recovery.

Family and Public Life

Taste of Country reports that Dolly and her late husband, Carl Dean, had no children of their own but were close with their extended family. Dolly had 11 siblings, six of whom were still alive at the time of her death. Stella, the sixth child, was the most vocal on social media, often defending her sister and expressing her views to fans.

In 2019, during the height of the #MeToo movement, Stella publicly criticized Dolly for remaining silent on certain issues. However, in her recent tribute, she expressed deep affection and admiration. ‘My hermana siempre pensaba en los demás, y si quieres honrar su legado, sé más amable, anima a los demás y dedica más tiempo y recursos a los demás, tal y como ella siguió haciendo hasta el final,’ Stella wrote, according to Fox News.

Legacy and Final Wishes

Stella emphasized the importance of continuing Dolly’s legacy through kindness and generosity. ‘If you want to honor her, be more kind, encourage others, and give more time and resources to others, as she did until the end,’ she said. She also expressed gratitude to fans for their support and respect for Dolly’s memory.

According to her publicist, Dolly passed away peacefully in Nashville after a short but difficult battle with cancer. Despite her health struggles, she had remained private about the severity of her condition until after her death. Stella’s tribute has offered a rare glimpse into the personal life of the country music icon and the bond she shared with her sister.