Dolly Parton’s niece shares emotional update weeks after her death: ‘It still doesn’t feel real’

Heidi Parton said seeing Dolly Parton perform was difficult but felt grateful for those memories, adding that work helps her cope with grief
Heidi Parton mourned her aunt Dolly Parton two weeks after her death, sharing emotional memories in a heartfelt tribute (@heidiparton/Instagram)
Heidi Parton mourned her aunt Dolly Parton two weeks after her death, sharing emotional memories in a heartfelt tribute (@heidiparton/Instagram)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Dolly Parton’s death has come as a major shock to the Hollywood industry, and the loss still feels unreal even after 14 days.

The 'Jolene' singer’s passing has taken a toll on her family, especially her niece, Heidi Parton.

Heidi shared a heartfelt tribute reflecting on her aunt’s death and the special memories they shared, two weeks after her passing.

The legendary singer was laid to rest in a private family service after she died at the age of 80 on August 25.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - JANUARY 28: Dolly Parton speaks during
Dolly Parton speaks during 'Dolly: An Original Musical' fireside chat and press conference at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts on January 28, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee (Jason Kempin/Getty Images)

Heidi Parton mourns Dolly Parton two weeks after death

Heidi Parton shared an emotional update on social media, saying she is having the hardest time accepting that her aunt, the “Queen of Country,” is no longer here.

Sharing a sweet backstage picture with Dolly, Heidi wrote, “It’s been 2 weeks today and it still doesn’t feel real,” in an Instagram post on Tuesday, September 8.

Heidi also revealed the story behind the photo, writing, “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.”

She then reflected on how fortunate she feels to have witnessed Dolly perform on stage. “Seeing her everyday on stage is so hard but I’m so fortunate that I have that ability,” she added.

In another Instagram video shared on August 27, Heidi thanked fans for their support following the death of the legendary icon.

“I’ve done several interviews to pay honor to her,” she wrote. “I know that may sound strange to many, but Aunt Dolly found peace and solace in working when life got sad or tough, and I’ve discovered that’s how I cope as well,” she added.

Dolly Parton’s death shocks Hollywood stars

Parton’s death sent shockwaves through Hollywood, leaving fans and fellow celebrities stunned. The country music icon died on August 25 after battling cancer and spending several days in the hospital before her passing.

FILE - Dolly Parton poses for a photo at her office in Nashville, Tenn., Aug. 11, 2005. (AP Photo/John Russell, File)
Dolly Parton poses for a photo at her office in Nashville, August 11, 2005 (AP Photo/John Russell, File)

Her family announced the heartbreaking news, but tributes soon poured in from across Hollywood.

A-listers including Miley Cyrus and her family, Sandra Bullock, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Sabrina Carpenter, and others paid their respects to the legendary singer.

On September 1, Dolly’s niece Jada Star revealed why the singer had kept her cancer battle private. “She never wanted to worry anybody. So I think it was just a shock,” she shared.

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