Priscilla Presley has paid an emotional tribute to Dolly Parton following the country legend’s death at 80. As well as praising the singer for her kindness and talent, she also revealed that one of Parton’s most famous songs had a deeply personal meaning to her.
Priscilla, 81, explained that the song “I Will Always Love You” acted as a lasting connection between herself and Elvis Presley, making her tribute even more poignant.
After Priscilla and Elvis finalized their divorce in 1973, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll apparently sang Parton’s iconic song to Priscilla as they exited the courthouse, cementing the lasting feelings Elvis had for his former wife. Years later, Priscilla got the opportunity to tell Dolly about what had happened and why the song means so much to her.
Priscilla Presley Reveals Her Special Connection to Dolly Parton
Paying tribute to Parton on Instagram, Priscilla wrote, “I am so saddened to hear of the passing of the incomparable Dolly Parton.”
She then revealed the remarkable story behind that connection, saying,” Dolly brought so much joy, kindness, and beautiful music into this world. I will always remember our conversations, and especially the connection we shared through a song that holds such a special place in my heart – ‘I Will Always Love You.'”
“After Elvis and I left the courthouse following our divorce, he sang the song to me as we walked down the steps together. Years later, I shared that memory with Dolly.”
Priscilla ended her tribute by offering her condolences and once again praising Parton for her unique personality and kind-hearted nature. “Her music touched all of us, but it was Dolly’s warmth, humour, and enormous heart that made her truly one of a kind,” she wrote. “My thoughts and prayers are with her family and everyone who loved her.”
Dolly Parton Supported Priscilla Presley After Lisa Marie’s Death
The affection between the two women wasn’t one-sided and Parton offered her own support to Priscilla following a tragic time in 2023. When Priscilla’s only daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, died at 54 in January of that year, Parton publicly reached out with a moving message of support.
“Priscilla, I know how sad you must be. May God comfort you at this time,” Parton wrote at the time. She also expressed her hope that Lisa Marie had been reunited with her father Elvis, who himself died in 1977.
Parton later explained that she could only imagine Priscilla’s grief at losing her only child. She went on to say that she hoped Priscilla would “find some peace” through the love surrounding her.
Dolly Parton Faced Several Difficult Years
Parton’s death followed an extraordinarily difficult period in her personal life. Her long-time husband, Carl Thomas Dean, died in March 2025 after almost 60 years of marriage. Parton subsequently released “If You Hadn’t Been There” in his honor and admitted that she had found it difficult to cope without him by her side.
She was also dealing with significant health issues in recent months. Parton had been forced to postpone a number of performances but was determined to keep working as she still had many things she wanted to achieve.
Even amid her own struggles, Parton continued celebrating others. Earlier this year, she honored Ozzy Osbourne following his death and remembered longtime friend Jeannie Seely in another touching farewell.
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