Dolly Parton’s death on August 25, 2026, shocked and saddened millions. While fans will mourn the Dolly they knew from radio and television, her family feels a much more personal void. Rebecca Seaver, Cassie Parton, and Larry Seaver’s daughter, shared beautiful memories of her Aunt Dolly in a touching Instagram post. Not only did Rebecca lose her aunt, but she also had to take her only child, Leroy, to college in the same week. She turned those very different types of grief into a time of love and reflection.
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“Today, I embark on a new journey: a life without my most trusted confidant. My best friend, my favorite adventurer, my name-giver, my godmother, my precious Aunt Granny. I know she has been welcomed into the mystic by Carl and my Mamaw Avie Lee. She is now on her most important celestial journey with God and I know she is at peace,” Rebecca wrote.
Aunt Dolly Meant So Much to Rebecca Seaver and Her Son
Rebecca saw her Aunt Dolly for the last time just weeks before she passed away.
“We didn’t know what the week held for us, but we know now that our angels had a plan all along. We are on a special mission, and even though we feel the grief in our hearts along the way, we have found the resolve to stay the course,” Rebecca shared. The way she intended when we saw her for our birthdays, just a few weeks ago. What we didn’t know then was that it would be the last time.”
Rebecca let Leroy know that his Aunt Dolly would be with him during his journey and gave hi a sweet reminder.
“I’ll be headed home to Tennessee in a couple days after you’re settled in your new dorm. I’ll have a Grand Canyon in my heart but I know you’ll have your guardian angel here by your side every step of the way. Just don’t drive faster than her butterfly wings can carry her!! WALY Mom,” she concluded.
We know Aunt Dolly is watching and sending all the butterflies their way.
This story’s featured image is by John Seakwood/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images
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