Dolly Parton’s niece, Heidi Parton, has broken her silence to share a heartfelt tribute to the late country music icon.
Parton died of cancer, which she battled privately, and her death was announced on August 25. She was 80. In the days since, family and her inner circle have shared tributes, and on Friday, August 28, Heidi, the daughter of Dolly’s younger brother, Randy Parton, shared a video statement on Instagram reflecting on her aunt’s life and what she means to her.
Heidi Parton Shares Tearful Tribute to Her Aunt Dolly Parton
In the video, Heidi explained that she wanted to thank fans for their support and condolences. She described Dolly’s passing as “a very profound loss to the world” and their family. “There was such an outpouring of love and condolences and support from so many of you that I couldn’t just respond to all of you individually,” she shared.
Heidi revealed she made the video so that it would be “more special and personal” for her fans. Speaking of her loss, she appeared visibly emotional and teared up, telling fans that she has been feeling “numb” and “it comes in waves, as grief does.” She continued, “To see what a difference and what a mark my aunt made for this world is truly beautiful.”
Heidi also reflected on how incredible it was to see Dolly’s kindness, how it made such a difference in the world, and how it touched so many lives.
Heidi shared a lengthy statement in the caption of her post. “I’ve had the opportunity the last several days following the announcement of the passing of my Aunt Dolly, better known to me as ‘Aunt Granny,’ to share how incredible she was,” she began. Heidi revealed she has done interviews to honor her, and reflected on their similarities. “Aunt Dolly found peace and solace in working when life got sad or tough, and I’ve discovered that’s how I cope as well,” she said.
Heidi made the video a few days ago, but was reluctant to post it because she was “very raw in my emotions and my grief.” She concluded, “The world will forever carry a little extra sparkle wherever Dolly Parton has been because of all the lives she touched and changed.”
Fans Show Support for Dolly Parton’s Niece Heidi Parton
Heidi may have been reluctant to share her video message, but fans are happy she did and reacted in the comments, sending Heidi their love. “I’m so sorry for your gigantic loss. Thank you so much for taking a minute to come and cry with us. We are crying with you. I truly appreciate it. I’m sending you love and blessings for you and your family,” a comment reads.
“Dolly was a queen. My prayers are with you and your family. RIP Dolly you will be missed by all,” another person wrote.
A third comment reads, “Isn’t it amazing how this one beautiful little lady lit up a whole world!! I cant imagine being in her family, but I know if you are her family then you know that you have been deeply loved by the one and only Dolly!”
Dolly had an incredible career, including serving as a guest mentor on “American Idol” in Season 7 and a guest mentor on “The Voice” in Season 9 and Season 11. She also won a slew of awards, including 11 Grammy Awards and a Primetime Emmy Award.
