Dolly Parton grew up poor in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and spent much of her time in nature. One of her favorite things to do when she was young was to chase butterflies. The tiny creatures became symbolic for Dolly Parton, and the butterfly appeared often during her decades-long career. Whether on her clothing, artwork, or her independent label, Butterfly Records, Dolly always kept the creatures close to her heart. Dolly passed away on August 25, 2026, and just days later Mae Estes performed her hit song “Coat of Many Colors” at the Grand Ole Opry. What happened next will blow your mind.
Videos by InspireMore
A Butterfly Appeared on Stage as Mae Estes Sang Dolly Parton’s Song
The Grand Ole Opry shared a video from Mae Estes’ performance of Dolly Parton’s song, and the butterfly is easy to see.
“You can’t make this up,” the video’s caption reads. “The spirit of Dolly Parton is strong in the Opry House. Just ask Mae Estes! A butterfly appeared flying around stage during her tribute to Dolly with ‘Coat Of Many Colors.’”
Fans could hardly believe their eyes, but they knew just what that butterfly meant.
“She was letting everyone know she was home with Carl Dean,” someone wrote.
This person saw the moment live. “Can confirm! This happened Wednesday night while Mae Estes sang Coat of Many Colors BEAUTIFULLY!! I saw it!”
Others think Dolly Parton’s spirit was in that butterfly.
“I believe in signs. And that was Dolly’s spirit disguised as a butterfly, one of her fav symbols,” a fan shared.
This person agreed, writing, “About the time of Dolly’s passing I remarked to my husband as I was glancing out of the window , ‘oh, there goes a beautiful yellow butterfly!’ Little did I know what had just happened!”
Dolly, we see you, and we will always love you.
This story’s featured image is by Sam Hodde/Getty Images for ABA
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