Dolly Parton's Nieces Share Cherished Final Memories Of 'Aunt Granny' Before Her Death In Sevierville
Dolly Parton's nieces are sharing intimate memories of the late country music icon, offering fans a rare glimpse into the private, everyday moments they shared with the woman they knew simply as "Aunt Granny."
Heidi Parton and Danielle Parton, the daughters of Dolly Parton's younger brothers, Randy and Robert Jr., respectively, appeared on TODAY on Sept. 3 to reflect on their late aunt, recalling both her trademark humor and the down-to-earth guidance she offered them throughout their lives. The two spoke from the family's hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee, as they recounted the last times they spent together with Parton in person.
Heidi Parton, a country musician in her own right, recalled receiving career advice from her aunt after releasing her most recent album, "Reflections," in 2025.
"I sat down and had a very sweet, in-depth conversation about how to proceed with my career," Heidi Parton said. "We talked for about an hour and she was like, 'Baby, I'm just going to tell you this. You've got the talent. If you want it, go get it.' I'm like, 'Yes ma'am.'"
Heidi Parton described the conversation as one she now holds especially close, given how rare that kind of one-on-one time with her famous aunt had become in recent years.
"We had a really good conversation," she continued. "She was just so sweet and so supportive, and it was just really precious because I hadn't gotten to do that in so long. I really just hold that very close to me now."
Danielle Parton, 50, who shares a January........
