Country music legend Randy Travis and his wife, Mary Davis-Travis, paid a deeply personal tribute to Dolly Parton following her death this week, honoring both her friendship and her faith in an emotional Instagram post.
"From our hearts to the throne of glory, we release one of our greatest angels... our butterfly, Dolly," Travis wrote. "I've been blessed to know many wonderful folks throughout my career in country music; but, none quite like you, Dolly. You had a way of making everyone around you feel most important. Your kindness was genuine, your faith strong, your humor lit up a room, and that beautiful heart of yours was even bigger than the remarkable voice the world fell in love with."
Travis went on to reflect on Parton's support during difficult chapters of his own life. "I'll always be grateful for the memories, the conversations, the laughs, and the goodness you showed me through the years - especially during the chapters of my life when your encouragement meant more than you probably ever knew," he wrote.
He closed with words rooted in his and Parton's shared faith, referencing her late husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025. "Thank you for showing all of us how to carry success with grace and how to use the gifts God gave us to bless others," Travis wrote. "Your mission to make people happy and lift them up while glorifying God is complete... Rest peaceful, my sweet friend, until we meet again... and, next time, I'll be sneaking up on you! I will always love you... forever and ever, Amen - Randy Travis."
The tribute comes just days after Travis's own emotional night at the Grand Ole Opry, where Carrie Underwood surprised him on stage to celebrate his 40th anniversary as a member of the historic venue.
Related articles:
- Dolly Parton Dies at 80, Nephew Says She's "In the Arms of Jesus"
- Carrie Underwood Surprises Randy Travis for His 40th Grand Ole Opry Anniversary
