Reba McEntire reflects on a poignant missed opportunity with the late Dolly Parton, revealing a call from her long-time friend that she wishes she could have returned.
The bond between Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton, two luminaries of country music, has endured for decades. McEntire had a chance to honor that friendship at the upcoming 2026 Primetime Emmys, but the memory of an unanswered call from Parton just prior to her passing weighs heavily on her. This moment highlights the deep connection between the artists and underscores the impact of Parton’s recent death on her friends and fans alike.
Reba Will Always Wonder About Dolly’s Call
Reba Remembers Dolly
Dolly Parton passed away in August at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer. In the aftermath, McEntire took to social media to pay tribute to her friend, expressing gratitude for Parton’s influence and spirit. “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,” she wrote. “There will never ever be another you.”
Thank you, Lord, for Dolly. 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.
At the 2026 Primetime Emmys, McEntire performed “Appalachian Memories” as part of a tribute to Parton, wearing her friend’s jewelry, which included a butterfly ring and earrings, to bring a piece of Dolly with her to the stage. This heartfelt choice added a personal touch to the performance, making it more than just a musical tribute; it served as a reminder of their indelible connection.
9 Times Dolly Parton Sang About Heaven and Her Faith
Dolly Parton has an extensive catalog of music from her decades in the genre. And while there are several big hits like “Jolene” and “9 to 5,” it’s the songs about her faith that she might have loved the most.
Parton was open about her love for Jesus, and she often sang about it, weaving in beautiful imagery of what Heaven would be like one day.
She kept her faith on her sleeve until the day she passed, finally getting to where she was going.
Gallery Credit: Jess Rose