Dolly Parton's Niece Shares Heartfelt Tribute

Dolly Parton's niece, Rebecca Seaver, has penned a heartfelt message commemorating her late aunt. Seaver, the daughter of Parton's sister Cassie, described Parton as "the light" and her "most trusted confidant, best friend, and godmother."

Parton passed away at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer, a loss that has left Seaver and her family with "insurmountable" grief. Seaver announced that she is embarking on a "new journey" without her cherished "Aunt Granny."

Seaver shared that Parton has been welcomed into the "mystic" by her late husband Carl Dean and mother Avie Lee, and is now on a "celestial journey with God." She expressed profound gratitude for Parton's presence and legacy of joy.

The country music legend had been undergoing treatment at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville. Parton had also recently spoken about managing unspecified health issues, including kidney and autoimmune problems, prior to her passing.