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Freida Parton Shares Heartfelt Memories and Grief Following Dolly Parton’s Passing
While the world celebrated Dolly Parton as a legendary music icon, her sister Freida Parton knew a more intimate side of the star. In a touching Facebook post on Saturday, August 29, Freida reflected on the childhood fears they faced together, the challenges they overcame, and the pivotal role Dolly played in raising her during her teenage years.
Freida also reached out to fans, asking for prayers and support as their family grieves the loss of their beloved sister. “Thank you all for bearing with me as I mourn the death of my big sister,” she wrote.
Dolly Parton, famed for hits like “Jolene,” passed away at the age of 80 on Tuesday, August 25, after a brief battle with cancer, according to her family.
A Sister, a Caregiver, a ‘Dolly Momma’
Freida, 69, shared that Dolly took on a motherly role from when she was 13 until she turned 18. “To the entire world, she was a superstar, but to me, she was my Dolly Momma,” Freida expressed. She recalled how Dolly would comfort her by climbing into bed when they were both afraid of the dark and how she stepped up to raise her during those formative years.
Their relationship wasn’t without typical sibling ups and downs. Freida acknowledged, “Like all sisters, we definitely had our share of arguments and disagreements throughout the years, but even through all the highs and lows, and all the laughter and tears, I never stopped loving her.”
Freida also shared lighter memories, including Dolly’s playful attempts to convince her to wear wigs while performing at Dollywood, which Freida politely declined.
A Call for Continued Support and a Tribute in the Works
Months before Dolly’s passing, Freida had asked fans to keep her sister in their prayers. Now, she requests ongoing prayers for herself and her entire family as they navigate this profound loss.
“Dolly could never be replaced,” Freida wrote. “Continuing without her will sometimes feel impossible.”
Determined to honor Dolly’s legacy, Freida pledged to carry forward her sister’s spirit of generosity. “I know she would want me to keep going, keep smiling, and keep sharing the love she gave so freely with others,” she said.
In closing, Freida revealed she is working on a special project to celebrate Dolly’s life and share a piece of her with fans worldwide. “It’s my way of keeping a little piece of my Dolly Momma with me, while sharing her with all of you who loved her, too,” she shared.
Family Roots
Dolly was one of 12 children born to Robert Lee Parton Sr. and Avie Lee Parton. She grew up in Tennessee with six brothers-Willadeene, David, Denver, Bobby, Randy, and Larry-and five sisters, including Freida, Stella, Cassie, Rachel, and Floyd.
As fans around the world continue to mourn Dolly’s passing, Freida’s heartfelt words offer a glimpse into the sisterly bond that shaped a remarkable woman’s life beyond the spotlight.