Tributes are pouring in as the world mourns a country music icon. Carrie Underwood is finding comfort in faith as she mourns Dolly Parton, remembering the country icon as someone whose goodness matched her extraordinary talent. The American Idol judge shared photographs from their years together Tuesday, August 25, after Parton’s family announced her death at 80.
What Did Carrie Underwood Say About Dolly Parton?
“She’s not gone. I know exactly where she is,” Underwood wrote in an Instagram tribute.
Underwood described Parton as “the epitome of faith, grace, talent, beauty and humor.” She also remembered the warmth Parton showed everyone she met.
“She had a humble heart for Jesus and made everyone around her feel special,” Underwood continued. “She was probably the one person on planet Earth that everyone loved and could agree on.”
The eight-time Grammy winner acknowledged the sadness surrounding Parton’s death while leaning on their shared Christian faith.
“It’s alright to be sad that this world lost a legend, but heaven gained an angel,” she wrote. “Well done, good and faithful Dolly. Welcome home.”
How Did Carrie Underwood and Dolly Parton Work Together?
Underwood’s tribute reflected nearly two decades of admiration and memorable performances.
In 2006, shortly after winning American Idol, Underwood joined Kenny Rogers to perform “Islands in the Stream” during the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony celebrating Parton.
The performance ended with both singers blowing kisses toward the visibly delighted honoree.
Underwood later sang “I Will Always Love You” with Parton during her 2009 television holiday special.
She returned to the song several times throughout her career, including as part of the star-studded tribute to Parton at the 2016 CMA Awards.
How Was Dolly Parton’s Death Announced?
Parton’s nephew and longtime security chief, Bryan Seaver, confirmed her death in a video posted through her official Instagram account.
Seaver said Parton had asked him years earlier to deliver the announcement when the time came. He said she was “in the arms of Jesus” and reunited with her late husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025.
Parton died peacefully in Nashville, according to the Associated Press. Her cause of death had not been publicly disclosed as of Tuesday evening.
How Is Country Music Remembering Dolly Parton?
Underwood joined generations of musicians in mourning a woman whose influence stretched across country, pop, gospel and film.
Reba McEntire thanked her longtime friend for her love and music, writing, “There will never ever be another you.” Parton’s honorary goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, mourned “the purest soul.”
Kelly Clarkson remembered Parton’s ability to make people feel special and welcomed, while Blake Shelton said spending time with her felt like being with the closest member of the family.
Parton earned 11 Grammys and wrote enduring songs including “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You.” She also starred in 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias and built a far-reaching literacy legacy through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
Underwood’s farewell honored every side of Parton, but its final message was grounded in faith. For her, Dolly was not gone. She was home.
