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Orgo-Life the new way to the future Advertising by AdpathwayBilly Ray Cyrus Details Getting "Beautiful" Message From Dolly Parton Before Her Death
Like many, Billy Ray Cyrus is nursing an achy breaky heart.
And that’s because the legendary Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, leaving behind a hole in the hearts of musicians and fans everywhere—especially within the Cyrus family, who were some of Dolly’s closest friends.
"I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start," Billy Ray wrote on Instagram Aug. 25. "Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms."
After growing close in Nashville and Hollywood, the pair kept in touch, with Billy Ray sharing that he received a touching note from the Grammy winner before her passing.
"Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart," he wrote. "I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will."
He also remembered Dolly for her signature humor, recalling one instance in 1992 when she joked about affair rumors between them.
"I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her," he added. "In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, 'Honey, this trash sells records!'"
Katherine Bomboy/NBC via Getty Images
Not only did she and Billy Ray maintain a close friendship since the early ‘90s when “Achy Breaky Heart” launched him to a new level of fame, but he also asked the Queen of Country to act as his daughter Miley Cyrus’ godmother upon her birth in 1992.
For Billy Ray, seeing the bond that developed between his daughter and Dolly was a great joy of his life.
"Her and Miley actually just fell in love,” he said on AXS TV in October. "Like it was kindred spirits. That sounds silly, but they were absolute. You could just feel it from the second they met. It was two peas in a pod."
Indeed, Dolly was so much more than a loving godmother and musical collaborator—she was also a constant, aspirational beacon for the Hannah Montana star.
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
“Dolly is not only my idol because of her incomparable career—she’s also my role model because of her steadfast morals and values,” Miley wrote when Dolly was named to TIME’s 100 Most Inspirational People list in 2021. “At her core, she is the definition of a humanitarian.”
Indeed, while Dolly became known for her sparkling style and towering blonde hair, Miley emphasized how the “9 to 5” singer’s impact was felt far beyond the musical world.
“Though she created an identity that she downplays as being built on wigs, lots of gingham and silicone, the foundation for this empire is actually her honesty, truth and her faith,” the Grammy winner added. “People look to Dolly for guidance, and she knows that. She wears that responsibility with the same grace and pride she rocks a two-piece Nudie suit.”
Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
As Miley added, “She recognizes how impactful her choices will be as one of the most iconic and powerful voices in country music, and she leaves no one behind.”
And best of all, the Disney Channel alum said Dolly, who also made guest appearances on Hannah Montana as a fictional version of herself, lives up to every expectation.
“There’s a theory that you shouldn’t meet your heroes, but I wish everyone had the chance to meet Dolly Parton,” Miley added. “Because she’s even better than your sparkliest dreams. She may be my fairy godmother, but I think she’s that to everyone else too. I am happy to share her with the world.”
For a closer look at the many tributes that have poured in celebrating the life and legacy of the country icon, keep reading…
Robyn Beck and VALERIE MACON / AFP / Photo by ROBYN BECKVALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images
Beyoncé
“Dolly, you were the barometer. The North Star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious," Beyoncé wrote on her website Aug. 25. "You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humor, your entrepreneurship."
She's espcially grateful they could work on a version of "Jolene" for Beyoncé's Grammy-winning album Cowboy Carter.
"I’m honored that I had the privilege to work with you," she continued. "I will treasure that forever. Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.”
Jerry Fitzgerald/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images
Oprah Winfrey
“One of my fondest memories with @dollyparton: Having a hoot and a holler while wearing Bob Mackie gowns on her show Dolly,” the TV icon posted to Instagram. “This girl from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee dreamed a life and then lived a life bigger than she could have ever imagined, giving so generously to others in ways we saw and ways we didn’t.
“No one like her. She brought the light, and we are all better because she was here,” Winfrey continued. “God bless you, Dolly—you earned your wings.”
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Jane Fonda
Parton’s 9 to 5 costar shared a heartfelt message for the singer and actress, writing in part, “I know that millions are mourning and I want to say this – more than anyone I have ever known, Dolly will always be with us because she was so present, so powerful, so generous and playful that she is woven into all our lives and hearts forever. We have our memories of her, her songs, Dollywood, '9to5,' the millions of books she got into the hands of children, all the iconic images that bring her to us. And they are all blessings. Let’s be grateful for all that she has left us to ease our sadness now.”
“To her gay and trans fans, I want you to know that she loved you. You know that without me telling you. She loved all her fans and they are legion. And you know she doesn’t want y’all to mourn now. Dress up and celebrate her spirit,” she added. “But first, watch the final episode of Grace and Frankie where she’s an Angel, the head honcho working class angel in Heaven.”
Fonda concluded, “RIP, beautiful woman. We love you."
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Reba McEntire
“Well, I just got the news that my buddy Dolly passed onto the higher and greater side,” the country singer began in her tribute to Parton. “Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth.”
“Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you,” she added alongside several photos of the two. “We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang. Thank you, Lord, for Dolly.”
McEntire continued, “She’s gonna have a blast in heaven singing all her favorite songs with all her family and friends who have gone on before her. I’ll never forget the first time I met you and I’ll never forget our last conversation. I hold it with love in my heart. I will always love you, Reba.”
Michael Kovac/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
Reese Witherspoon
“I count my lucky stars that I called Dolly my friend. When I was playing June Carter Cash in Walk the Line, she took me to dinner and told me stories of how June Carter charmed everyone in country music,” the Oscar winner recalled. “Dolly gave me the courage to put my whole spirit into that performance and made me see how lucky I was to be a storyteller. Throughout my entire career, she sent me little notes of encouragement and support, telling me to be the light in people’s lives and listen to my angels. Always signed: ‘I will always love you.’”
“Dolly, I miss you already,” she wrote. “Your talent, your wisdom and your beautiful spirit lit up our lives. Go soar with your angels…. We will always love you.”
Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images
Sally Field
Parton’s Steel Magnolias costar posted a throwback photo of the cast to Instagram, writing in the caption, “If there are truly angels on earth, then we have just lost one. Dolly Parton. There will never be another. I adored her with all my heart and will always cherish our time together. Forever. Rest in peace beautiful Dolly.”
Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images
Cyndi Lauper
“It’s hard for me to imagine the world without Dolly,” the Grammy winner began. “Dolly’s heart was as big as her talent. She was not only a great singer/song writer/actress/TV star, Dolly also lived her art. She used her art, her fame and her money to help so many people. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve thought to myself, 'What would Dolly do?' She was a great role model for all of us. I hope she is in a place with Carl, her Mom and Dad and all her loved ones who’ve passed. She will be so missed. Rest in Peace Dolly.”
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Barbra Streisand
“So sorry to hear about Dolly - she was a true force of nature,” the Funny Girl actress shared. “May she rest in peace.”
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Paul McCartney
“The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died and it is so sad. She was such a wonderful woman. I first met her in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry where she had been playing with the country star Porter Wagoner and was about to start her solo career,” the Beatles alum remembered. “She was so bubbly and full of life it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed. Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly. She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of her music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world.”
McCartney continued, “There was no greater honour for me than to have her sing my song Let It Be and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honoured that she did it. I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents.”
“Thanks Dolly for the beautiful music you gave me and the whole world,” he added. "We will always love you, god bless and rest in peace. You were the best.”
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Sabrina Carpenter
"The only thing i could say after we first met was 'she really is an angel walking the earth' and 'we look like we could be sisters!'" she raved. "I will cherish our laughter and conversations and i will keep your wisdom, your playful outlook on life, and perfect sense of humor in my pocket for the rainy days. there will never be another you and how lucky are we all to have experienced your singular magic as well as your once in a lifetime voice, songs, and heart. your light will be something the world will search forever to find again."
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Keith Urban
“Hearbroken today. Dolly Parton,” the “Somebody Like You” singer posted to Instagram Stories. “Honestly....I have no words right now.”
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Kelly Clarkson
“Dolly Parton had a way of making everyone feel special, and seen, and welcomed, and as if you were old friends,” the “Because of You” singer lamented on X. “I will miss her heart and her voice as I am sure millions will. What an incredible gift and talent she was and still is with an amazing catalogue of art she has left behind for all of us.”
Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images
Julia Roberts
“Dolly was a magical and joyous human,” Roberts shared of her Steel Magnolias costar in a statement to Variety. “I hold knowing her as a treasure in my life. The sun has dimmed today.”
Trae Patton/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images
Blake Shelton
“I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today,” the country singer wrote on X. “I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen [Stefani] and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family. Truly a loss for the entire world. We love you Dolly.”
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Luke Bryan
From one country star to another, he wrote, "Her light, being a strong Tennessee woman, songwriting, charisma, wittiness, and the ability to make fun of herself and the ability to inspire the world is what I think about when I think of Dolly. When you live your life and people can recognize you by one name, Dolly, I think that says it all. Rest in peace Dolly."
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Tim McGraw
"She was an icon and showed us all what was possible, not only as a human but as an entertainer," he shared on Instagram. "She was the blueprint, head and shoulders above anyone that came before her and all those of us that have come after. Everything she did, she did it with kindness, grace and that famous wit and smile. It’s been hard to not be in tears all day. There will never be another Dolly Parton."
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Khloe Kardashian
The Kardashians star posted a series of tributes to Parton on her Instagram Story, including a look at her Dolly Parton-themed birthday party.
"Some people are so extraordinary, their existence feels almost impossible. Dolly was one of those people,” Kardashian wrote. “A once-in-a-lifetime soul. A woman whose light, heart, talent and humanity changed this world forever.”
She continued, “To have admired her was a gift. To have met her, spent time in her presence, and somehow been lucky enough that Dolly Parton knew my name... I will never have words big enough for what that means to me. What an astronomical human being. What a legacy. What a loss. There will never be another Dolly."
Robin Marchant/Getty Images for Netflix
Noah Kahan
The “Stick Season” singer shared a sweet tribute to Parton on X, writing, “Rest peacefully Dolly, thank you for the joy and the music and the example you set for us all.”
Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
Kacey Musgraves
“Dolly. This really really hurts,” the “Rainbow” singer posted to X, adding in a followup, “The world feels a lot less sparkly all of a sudden.”
“So glad she’s with her Carl Dean,” she continued, referencing Parton's late husband who died in March 2025. “No one talk to me today.”
Larry Busacca/Getty Images for SiriusXM
Kathie Lee Gifford
“I am completely devastated by the loss of my precious friend, Dolly. She encouraged me and loved me every day I needed it. That is what I remember most,” the TV personality posted to X. “I wish more people in this world would live like Dolly did. To just be kind and loving and steadfast . I will miss her for the rest of my life.”
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Shaboozey
“Rest in peace Dolly Parton, I wish I had the honor of meeting you,” the Grammy winner wrote on X. “You were everyone’s favorite artist. Thank you for giving us some of the greatest music we’ll ever know.”
Taylor Hill/WireImage
Joan Jett
“Dolly was a one of a kind, altruistic, down to earth, musical genius,” Jett shared on X, recalling the time she and Parton collaborated on the song "I Hate Myself For Loving You" for Parton’s 2023 album Rockstar. “Working with her was one of the highlights of my career.”
Jesse Grant/Getty Images for HISTORY
Gene Simmons
“Very, very sad,” the KISS singer said of Parton’s passing. “She was a sweet and kind soul and I’m proud to say I knew her. And I witnessed she always took time to stop and greet anyone around her. There will never be another Dolly.”
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Henry Winkler
“What a sad day for America, what a sad day for the world, what a sad day for the Parton family,” the Happy Days alum posted to X. “Dolly! We will miss you in more ways than one can say you were a treasure on this earth.”
Amy Sussman/Getty Images
Colman Domingo
“Dolly taught us that you can be anything and do anything and to do it with kindness,” the Oscar nominee shared on social media. “What a light. We are all grateful that we lived in a time of Dolly Parton. We will always love her.”
Amy Sussman/Getty Images
Paris Hilton
"Heartbroken to hear about Queen @DollyParton’s passing,” the Simple Life star wrote with a photo of the two. “She was a true icon and such an inspiration to me. Her talent, heart and kindness touched so many lives, and she truly left this world better than she found it. Sending all my love to her family, friends and everyone who loved her. Rest in peace, Dolly.”
Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions
Josh Gad
“This one just hurts too much,” the Frozen star lamented. “We have already lost too many of our 20th century musical greats, but today we lost one of our all—time-greats. F--k off 2026. We’re done. RIP Dolly. You are loved.”
Julian Hamilton/FilmMagic
Cody Linley
“Rest in peace to the Queen, Dolly Parton,” Linley wrote of his Hannah Montana costar. “Such a sweet and special soul who exuded positivity, warmth, and joy. May her incredible legacy live on for generations to come. I’m honored and grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her.”
Albert Urso/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows
Tess Holliday
“Currently pulled over on the side of the road sobbing I’ll never be the same,” the model wrote, sharing a photo of her tattoo of Parton. “Thank you for showing women everywhere to exist as they are. Loud, unapologetic, kind, and the ultimate southern baddie. My heart is broken.”
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Kristin Chenoweth
“Like the rest of the world, I’m immediately heartbroken,” the Broadway star shared alongside a photo of herself and Parton. “I met Dolly on several occasions and she always made me feel like one of her own. She even agreed to sing with me on one of my records. My ultimate inspiration. The world has lost one of the best but I know we will never forget her because she is impossible to forget. I love you Dolly and I will ALWAYS love you.”
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