Dolly Parton’s family has announced the passing of the country music icon in an emotional tribute delivered by her nephew, Brian Seaver, who served as her head of security for more than two decades.
Seaver said the announcement was one Parton had asked him to make years ago, long before he could imagine the moment would arrive.
He described the loss as a moment of both “absolute pride and great sadness,” while saying the sadness belonged to those left behind, not to Parton.
According to Seaver, Parton died surrounded by the love and faith that had guided her throughout her life. He said he imagined her being welcomed in heaven by her late husband, Carl Dean, her parents and others who had gone before her.
Seaver also reflected on Parton’s influence on his own family. He recalled going on the road with her as a child in the early 1980s and said she opened doors for her family that they had never imagined possible.
But, he added, Parton’s impact extended far beyond her relatives.
“She never saw a door she couldn’t open,” Seaver said, highlighting how Parton created opportunities for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers around the world.
For millions of fans, Parton had become more than an entertainer. She was a familiar presence through television, records, CDs and playlists, becoming what Seaver described as an extended member of many families.
He said Parton’s family and the team entrusted with her legacy would work to ensure that her spirit and work continued to live on.
In one of the most personal moments of the tribute, Seaver recalled Parton’s wish for a peaceful final resting place. After a lifetime of performing in heavy rhinestones, she wanted to rest comfortably in a beautiful bed of plush cotton.
Seaver ended the tribute with a simple farewell to his aunt and grandmother figure.
“Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly and Granny Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton and may God bless you all. She will always love you.”
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Category: Entertainment
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