Let me tell you something that really touched my heart. On Wednesday, March 19, during NBC’s Opry 100: A Live Celebration, Reba McEntire took a moment to honor Dolly Parton, who was going through a deeply personal and emotional time of loss. Dolly wasn’t there in person, but her presence was certainly felt by everyone in the room—and beyond.
A Celebration Without a Legend
Now, here's the thing: Dolly Parton, the legendary singer who turned 79 this year, wasn’t physically present at the celebration. But trust me, she was on everyone’s minds and in their hearts. This event came just weeks after the heartbreaking loss of her beloved husband, Carl Thomas Dean, on March 3. For over six decades, Carl was Dolly’s rock, and his passing left a void that no one could ever fill.
Reba’s Tribute to Dolly
Reba McEntire, the queen of country herself, stepped up to the mic and delivered words that resonated with every soul in the room. At 69 years old, Reba knows a thing or two about love, loss, and friendship. She said it best when she acknowledged Dolly’s absence: “It’s been a great night of celebration, but of course, it’s just not the same without you.”
Read also:Hoda Kotbs New Journey Begins Her First Big Project Posttoday Show
Reba didn’t stop there. She continued, “Dolly, everybody here at the Opry and around the world wants to send you our thoughts and prayers. And you gotta know, we will always love you.” These heartfelt words were more than just a tribute—they were a reminder of the bond that exists within the country music community and the enduring love that fans and peers have for Dolly.
A Musical Tribute to Dolly
Following Reba’s touching words, several artists joined forces on stage to perform Dolly’s timeless classic, “I Will Always Love You.” Written and recorded in 1973, this song has become synonymous with love and devotion. It’s no wonder it was chosen as the perfect way to honor Dolly’s legacy and her enduring spirit.
Dolly’s Virtual Appearance
Even though she wasn’t physically there, Dolly made sure her voice was heard. She appeared virtually during the Opry 100: A Live Celebration via a heartfelt video message. In her signature warm and inviting tone, she began, “Well, hello, I am Dolly Parton and I am a proud member of the Grand Ole Opry, and I’m so sorry that I can’t be there with everybody in person. But, of course, you know my heart is with you and my spirit is with you.”
Dolly went on to share a bit of her history with the Opry, saying, “I wanted to be on the Grand Ole Opry my whole life when I was a little kid, cause that’s just what you do when you sing country music, that’s where you want to go. And I am proud to say that my family, all the folks at the Grand Ole Opry, are very near and dear to me. And I have been a member of the Opry for 56 years.”
On March 3, Dolly announced the passing of her husband Carl, who was 82 years old. In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, she wrote, “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.”
Days later, Dolly shared another message expressing gratitude to her fans. On March 6, she posted, “This is a love note to family, friends, and fans. Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you’ve sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Carl. I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me. He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you.”
Read also:Ryan Seacrest Gets Playful With Big Bill Page On Wheel Of Fortune
Dolly’s First Public Appearance Since Carl’s Passing
Dolly made her first public appearance since Carl’s death on March 14 at her theme park, Dollywood, for the 40th annual opening ceremony. Speaking to attendees in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, she said, “I will always love him, and I miss him.”
After the event, Dolly spoke with Knox News, sharing that she felt “at peace” following Carl’s death. She revealed, “I’m doing better than I thought I would. I’ve been with him 60 years. So, I’m going to have to relearn some of the things that we’ve done. But I’ll keep him always close.”
