Stella Parton recently shared insights about her sister, Dolly Parton, in an exclusive interview with Gayle King on ‘CBS Mornings.’ Stella expressed that Dolly was at peace and well-prepared before her passing late last month following a battle with cancer. ‘I know she was at peace,’ Stella said. ‘I could always tell by looking at her face.’
Dolly Parton, known for her influence as a country music superstar and philanthropist, was more than a public icon to Stella. She was a cherished sister. They maintained a close bond, speaking every Tuesday morning over coffee. ‘She knew where she was going,’ Stella mentioned, emphasizing Dolly’s faith and belief that she would reunite with their parents in the afterlife.
During the interview at Nashville’s RCA Studio A, Stella reminisced about Dolly’s early years in music and television. At just 10 years old, Dolly began her career, quickly rising from poverty in Tennessee to become a beloved public figure.
Dolly was married to Carl Thomas Dean for nearly 60 years. He passed away in March of the previous year. Stella described Carl as quiet and shy, utterly captivated by Dolly’s charm. Although he supported her career, he enjoyed simpler moments with her at home.
Stella acknowledged Dolly’s sadness after Carl’s death but dismissed the notion that it contributed to her illness. She attributed Dolly’s health decline to her tireless work ethic and dedication to her craft. ‘Even in our last conversation, she was working. That was her passion,’ Stella stated.
Renowned for her iconic image, Dolly avoided public political discussions, despite having strong opinions. Stella revealed that Dolly even maintained her glamorous appearance privately, rarely seen without makeup.
Despite Dolly’s significant public support following her death, Stella noted a lack of personal condolences from Nashville’s entertainment community, speculating it might relate to her own social media activism.
Remembering Dolly, Stella highlighted her sister’s boundless creativity and optimism. ‘She was the most optimistic person I ever knew,’ she shared, hoping young people will find inspiration in Dolly’s ability to dream and achieve beyond expectations.