During a recent interview on CBS Mornings, country music icon Dolly Parton’s sister, Stella Parton, disclosed the final request her beloved sibling made before passing away. “That’s the last thing Dolly asked me for, was prayer,” Stella said, recalling the intimate moment.
Family respects Dolly’s privacy
Dolly Parton died on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer. The family has chosen not to disclose the specific type of cancer, stating that Dolly herself did not give permission to share those details. Stella explained, “It’s not my business to tell her business,” underscoring the family’s commitment to honoring Dolly’s wishes.
Health concerns emerged last year
Public concern about Dolly’s health first surfaced in September 2025 when she postponed several Las Vegas shows, citing the need for “a few procedures.” In a social‑media post, she wrote, “I have been dealing with some health challenges, and my doctors tell me that I must have a few procedures.” The announcement sparked a wave of support from fans and family alike.
Shortly after the postponement, Dolly’s sister Freida asked fans to pray for her, noting that Dolly “hasn’t been feeling her best lately.” Stella later suggested that Dolly reminded Freida to keep her health situation private, saying, “Don’t be spilling my business.”
Reflections on a life of work and love
Stella reflected on Dolly’s relentless work ethic, suggesting that the legendary singer’s dedication may have contributed to her illness. “She worked too hard and maybe didn’t take as good care of herself as she should have,” Stella said, adding that Dolly often prioritized caring for her late husband, Carl Dean, over her own well‑being.
Carl Dean, Dolly’s husband of nearly 60 years, passed away in March 2025 at age 82. While some speculated that Dolly’s grief over his loss played a role in her decline, Stella believes the primary factor was Dolly’s demanding schedule.
Personal side of the legend
Stella also shared tender memories of Dolly’s home life, describing how Carl preferred a simple domestic setting: “He would have her at the house with her hair up in a ponytail, barefoot, cooking in the kitchen.” She noted that, despite Dolly’s global fame, she rarely appeared without her signature glamorous look after becoming a star.
When asked about Dolly’s political views, Stella said her sister kept them private to avoid offending anyone, a testament to Dolly’s desire to bring people together rather than divide.
Final peace and legacy
Even amid her illness, Stella believes Dolly entered her final moments at peace, confident in her faith and the promise of reuniting with her parents. “She knew where she was going. She wasn’t going anywhere bad,” Stella affirmed.
Stella hopes the public will remember Dolly as “very sweet, kind, loving, brilliant and so talented,” emphasizing her boundless creativity and the inspiration she gave to young people dreaming of a brighter future.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
