Dolly Parton's niece, Rebecca Seaver, has spoken out about her profound sorrow following the country music legend's death at the age of 80. Seaver described her grief as "insurmountable" in an emotional Instagram post, sharing a collection of private family photographs.
Parton died on Tuesday after a "brief battle with cancer," according to a statement from her representatives. She was admitted to the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center on Friday and was "surrounded by loved ones" at the time of her passing.
Seaver, 39, who is the sister of Parton's 75-year-old mother Cassie, shared images of herself with her aunt, spanning from childhood to adulthood. "She has always been the light, not just for those directly in her orbit but for the entire world," Seaver wrote in her tribute. "We all wanted to be better versions of ourselves for her sake, and I hope we all continue to do just that."
Beyond their personal bond, Seaver also shared a professional connection with Parton. She serves as the executive director of the Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum and established the Dolly Archive, which preserves iconic costumes, awards, and personal items to ensure Parton's cultural impact endures.
"Today, I embark on a new journey: a life without my most trusted confidant," Seaver stated. "My best friend, my favorite adventurer, my name-giver, my godmother, my precious Aunt Granny."
Parton's death follows the passing of her husband of 60 years, Carl Dean, in 2025. Seaver expressed hope that Parton is now at peace, having been welcomed into the afterlife by her late husband and her mother, Avie Lee. "She is now on her most important celestial journey with God and I know she is at peace," Seaver added.
The country superstar is remembered for her extensive philanthropic work, including her Imagination Library, which has donated hundreds of millions of books to children. In April 2020, Parton also contributed $1 million to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, supporting research that aided in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
Seaver concluded her post by calling it a "celebration of a beautiful life, lived unapologetically and with the most incredible heart." She expressed pride in carrying forward Parton's legacy of "joy she brought and will continue to bring to all of us."
Parton's goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, also shared her grief on Instagram, stating that the loss of her "Aunt Dolly" was beyond words. Cyrus noted that their most sacred moments were private but affirmed Parton's enduring presence and guidance. "I have an angel by my side. I always have," Cyrus wrote. "One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis. I will always love her and want to make her proud."