Reba McEntire Missed Dolly Parton's Final Call Before Singer's Death

Reba McEntire shared that she missed a final phone call from her friend Dolly Parton approximately one month before the legendary singer's death.

Parton, known for hits like "Jolene," passed away at age 80 on August 25 following a private battle with cancer. McEntire, 71, told Entertainment Tonight that Parton called her in late July, but McEntire was in a meeting and unable to take the call.

"I tried to get back in touch with her and I couldn't, never made a connection," McEntire said. "And then when my buddy called me and said, 'Dolly's gone,' I thought, 'I'll never know why she called me.'"

McEntire added, "I'll find out one day. What a blessing she was for all of us."

Following news of Parton's death, McEntire posted an emotional tribute on Instagram, reflecting on their friendship and Parton's impact.

"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," McEntire wrote. "There will never ever be another you. We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang."

McEntire also recalled their first meeting and their last conversation, expressing her enduring love for Parton.

Earlier in the month, McEntire participated in a special tribute to Parton at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, performing Parton's 1983 song "Appalachian Memories."

Parton's representatives confirmed her death, stating that she passed away after a "brief battle with cancer" at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones. Her sister Stella later revealed that Parton had kept her diagnosis private from many family members, not wanting to cause worry or sadness.

"She'd be really happy and delighted that people have shown her so much love because she knew that that would make us feel better as her family," Stella Parton said of her sister's desire for her public to remain positive.

Stella also shared that her sister had expressed a willingness to try experimental drugs for her condition, even if there was no hope for herself, in the hope of helping others in the future.