Miley Cyrus has publicly mourned the death of her godmother, the iconic country music star Dolly Parton, sharing an emotional tribute that detailed their bond and Parton's final words.
Parton died on August 25 at the age of 80. Cyrus described the loss as "beyond what feels right to share," but emphasized that some of their most cherished moments were private. In an Instagram post, Cyrus reflected on her godmother's advice to "feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong." She added, "I have an angel by my side. I always have."
Cyrus revealed that one of their last conversations centered on "music and metamorphosis." She expressed her enduring love for Parton and her commitment to making her proud. "My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply," Cyrus wrote. "We’re in this loss together and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things."
Parton was named Miley Cyrus's godmother in 1992 by Miley's father, Billy Ray Cyrus. Dolly Parton recalled accepting the role in a 2009 interview, stating, "When she was born, he said, ‘You just have to be her godmother,’ and I said, ‘I accept.’"
Miley's father, Billy Ray Cyrus, also shared his grief, calling Parton a constant presence in his life since childhood. He recounted touring with Parton in 1992 and a tabloid scandal that arose. Recalling Parton's response to his apology for the rumors, he shared, "In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!'" He also shared that Parton had recently sent him a heartfelt message expressing her love.
Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton maintained a close relationship throughout the years, often expressing mutual admiration in interviews and collaborating on performances and projects, including appearances on the show "Hannah Montana." Cyrus once described Parton as "the most loved person on the planet."
Parton's nephew, Bryan Seaver, confirmed her death, noting her long legacy of opening doors for aspiring musicians and dreamers. He mentioned that one of Parton's final wishes was to be laid to rest in a comfortable setting after a life of elaborate performances.
Reports indicate Parton was hospitalized on August 20 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville for kidney and autoimmune issues. She had previously spoken of health issues she had not paid attention to while caring for her partner. Parton had canceled several appearances in the past year due to health concerns but had expressed optimism about her recovery.