Country music icon Dolly Parton made her final request to her sister Stella Parton before her death on August 25, asking for prayer, according to an interview Stella gave to CBS Mornings. The request came after Parton’s brief battle with cancer, which she kept private from many fans and some family members.
Stella Parton, speaking in an exclusive interview with CBS Mornings, confirmed that her sister’s last words to her were a plea for prayer. "That’s the last thing Dolly asked me for, was prayer," Stella recalled. The family has chosen not to disclose the specific type of cancer Parton battled, respecting her wishes to keep her health details private.
Parton’s health concerns first surfaced in September 2025, when she announced the postponement of several Las Vegas shows, citing the need for medical procedures. Her sister Freida Parton later asked fans to pray for her, prompting Dolly to privately address the concern with Freida, according to Stella.
Stella Parton described her sister as ‘definitely prepared’ and ‘at peace’ in her final days. "I know she was at peace," Stella said. "She wasn’t goin’ anywhere bad. She was going to be with Mama and Daddy." Parton’s husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, passed away in March 2024, and Stella reflected on their relationship, noting that Dean "adored" Dolly and preferred a quieter life for her.
The country legend, known for her philanthropy and business ventures, including Dollywood, maintained a private approach to her health even as fans expressed concern. Stella emphasized that Parton’s priority was ensuring others did not worry, saying, "She didn’t want a lot of the family worried about it."
Parton’s legacy spans decades, from her early career beginnings in rural Tennessee to becoming a global icon. Stella recalled her sister’s rapid rise to fame, noting that Parton was just 10 years old when she started her career in TV and music. Despite her stardom, Parton remained close to her family, speaking to Stella every Tuesday morning over coffee.
The interview took place at RCA Studio A in Nashville, where Parton recorded some of her most iconic songs. Stella described the studio as a place where her sister’s creativity flourished, reflecting on the enduring impact of Parton’s life and work.