Dolly Parton’s Niece Says Aunt’s Death Still Doesn’t Feel Real

When Dolly Parton passed away on August 25, 2026, it felt like the entire world grieved the loss. Dolly was so much more than the “Queen of Country Music.” She championed kindness, love, acceptance, and literacy. She touched the hearts of millions of people around the globe, many of whom still can’t believe she’s gone. Dolly Parton’s own niece, Heidi Parton, shared a photo with her aunt on Instagram.

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“It’s been 2 weeks today and it still doesn’t feel real! This photo is from the day we filmed the video for ‘The Gift’ that we use as the closing song in my show at @dollywood I’m so grateful I have this and the video. Seeing her everyday on stage is so hard but I’m so fortunate that I have that ability,” Heidi Parton wrote.

Hundreds of comments on the Instagram post shared in Heidi’s grief. Even though they didn’t know Dolly Parton the way her niece did, they still feel a void in their hearts.

“Can’t imagine how hard it must be for y’all. I’m just a fan and it’s been an incredibly hard two weeks,” someone commented.

This fan finds solace knowing Dolly is with the love of her life.

“I love it!! it has been so difficult without her. I’ve found some comfort in watching old interviews. At least we can still listen to her laugh. I keep reminding myself she is with Carl but I still want her back so badly,” the fan wrote.

This person shared a similar story with Dolly Parton’s niece.

“I lost my sister almost 11 years ago. It still doesn’t feel real. It hurts as much today as it did the day she passed. I will never not miss her. That being said, I am comforted that she is no longer sick or grieving (she had lost a baby several years prior to her death). She is in the Savior’s house, completely restored and with many loved ones,” the fan wrote.

Dolly may be gone in body, but her spirit and impact will remain for many lifetimes.

This story’s featured image is by Rich Fury/Getty Images for The Recording Academy