Reba McEntire Honors Dolly Parton at ‘Opry 100’ After Her Husband’s Death: ‘We Will Always Love You’

Reba McEntire recently took a momentous step to honor the legendary Dolly Parton during the memorable event, “Opry 100: A Live Celebration.” This event celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry and held profound significance, particularly following the loss of Parton’s beloved husband, Carl Dean. Dean passed away earlier this month, and the couple had shared nearly six decades of love and companionship.

During the tribute, which was infused with emotion and reflection, McEntire shared heartfelt words that resonated with many in attendance. Although Parton was unable to join the celebration in person, McEntire conveyed the collective warmth and support surrounding her, emphasizing how much Parton was missed during this pivotal moment. “Dolly, everybody here at the Opry and around the world wants to send you our thoughts and prayers. And you gotta know, we will always love you,” McEntire expressed sincerely, underlining the camaraderie and support of the country music community.

A Night of Remembrance and Honor

The evening reached a climactic moment when McEntire, alongside fellow artists Carrie Underwood and Lady A, delivered an emotional rendition of Parton’s iconic song “I Will Always Love You.” This performance transcended the musical experience, embodying both a tribute to the legendary artist and a source of comfort during her challenging time. The songs performed during the evening served as a reminder of the enduring impact of Parton’s music, as fans and fellow artists joined together in celebration of her legacy.

Prior to the performance, Parton reached out through a heartfelt video message, expressing her deep regret for not being able to attend the event. In her touching message, she emphasized her presence in spirit, reminding everyone of the strong bond that exists even during challenging times. Parton’s ability to connect with her audience transcends distance, and her message provided attendees with solace and support.

Dolly Parton’s Strength and Resilience

In the wake of her husband’s passing, Parton took a moment to publicly acknowledge the profound love they shared and shared the memories that will forever remain in her heart. She expressed gratitude for the immense support she has received from fans and friends during this difficult chapter in her life. Parton reflected on her years with Carl, stating that while she now faces a life without him, she finds peace knowing he is in God’s embrace.

Adding to her resilience, Parton has recently released a poignant new song titled “If You Hadn’t Been There.” This release not only showcases her artistry but also serves as a tribute to the love she and Carl shared. Furthermore, she made a heartfelt appearance at Dollywood, where she took the time to thank attendees for their condolences, demonstrating her genuine appreciation for her supporters during this challenging period.

The Power of Community Support

As the country music community rallies around Dolly Parton, it is clear that her influence and legacy remain indelible. The support she has received highlights the deep connections formed within the industry, showcasing the empathy and kinship that arise in times of sorrow. Drew Weisholtz, a reporter for TODAY Digital, covered the emotional tribute, noting the moments of love and remembrance that defined the evening as artists came together to lend their support to Parton.

In a world where music serves as a medium of healing, the country music community has once again proven that they stand united during both joyous and challenging times. As they celebrate the remarkable contributions of Dolly Parton, the shared sentiments resound: love, remembrance, and the enduring power of music reflect the essence of their support.

As we move forward, let us keep Dolly Parton in our hearts as she navigates through this life-changing moment. Show your love and support for the artist who has given so much to the world—remember, your appreciation for her music during this challenging time matters now more than ever. Share your favorite memories or songs from Dolly Parton and let her know she is not alone.