Dolly Parton’s sister is sharing one of the most personal memories from the country legend’s final days.
Stella Parton spoke with Gayle King on “CBS Mornings” on Thursday, September 10, reflecting on the conversations she treasured with Dolly, 80.
Dolly died on Tuesday, August 25, after what her representative described as a brief battle with cancer, as reported by People. Stella said the sisters had a standing Tuesday morning phone call over coffee.
What Did Dolly Parton Ask Her Sister Before She Died?
During the interview, Stella recalled one of her final exchanges with Dolly. “The last thing Dolly asked me for was prayer,” she said.
Stella said she will miss her sister’s hopeful nature the most. “Her optimism is what I’m gonna miss the most. She was the most optimistic person I ever met. I’m gonna miss that.”
She also described Dolly as “a sweet, kind, loving, brilliant [person], and so talented,” adding, “Her creativity had no bounds. She could dream bigger than anybody.”
What Did Stella Parton Say About Dolly and Carl Dean?
GettyStella also reflected on Dolly’s marriage to Carl Dean, who died in March 2025. She said Carl was “quiet and shy” and adored Dolly. “He thought she was funny.”
Asked whether Dolly died of a broken heart after losing her husband, Stella said she did not believe that was the case. “I think she was very sad, but I don’t think that’s why she got sick. I think she worked too hard and didn’t take as good care of herself as she should.”
She added, “I think it broke her heart to see him in the shape” Dean was before he died. “I don’t think that’s what made her sick. I think my sister worked so hard for so long.”
What Had Dolly Parton Said About Her Health?
Dolly had spoken publicly about health challenges shortly before her death. In an interview with People, published on Friday, August 21, she said some issues went unattended while she was caring for Carl.
“I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl,” she said.
“You know, this isn’t the first time I’ve had to manage something like this. Back in the early ’80s, I was down for several months with female issues, and I was struggling with my weight at the time too, so it’s not like I haven’t been through hard times with my health,” she continued.
How Is Stella Parton Remembering Dolly?
Even while grieving, Stella said Dolly’s presence still feels close. Speaking from RCA Studios in Nashville, she told King that “she’s still in the room.”
That feeling reflects the optimism Stella said her sister carried throughout her life and career. Dolly expressed that determination days before her death.
“You know me — as I’ve often said — I’ve dreamed myself into a corner and I still have so many things I want to achieve, so I’m gonna keep on working as long as I can to see everything come to life.”
