The royal family paid tribute to the late Dolly Parton on Wednesday morning, with the military band at Buckingham Palace playing her iconic hit "9 to 5" during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The touching tribute followed the news of the country music legend's passing on Tuesday.
King Charles and Queen Camilla shared footage of the moment on social media, accompanied by a caption that read, "Remembering the late, great Dolly, who brought joy, comfort and inspiration to so many — including the millions of children given free books through her Imagination Library." The royals concluded the message with "We will always ❤️ you," referencing another of Parton's well-known songs.
Social media users reacted positively to the tribute, with many describing it as "wonderfully done" and "perfect," with some stating it brought them to tears.
Parton's death at the age of 80 was announced by her nephew in an emotional video. Her representatives later confirmed to Page Six that she had "bravely faced a brief battle with cancer." A statement released by her team noted that Parton "departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones."
The statement further described Parton's life and career: "Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand."