Royal Family Pays Emotional Tribute to Dolly Parton- 'We Will Always Love You'

Published 08/26/2026, 10:59 AM EDT

August 7, 2016 - Highland Park, Illinois, U.S - Country musician DOLLY PARTON performs live at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, Illinois Highland Park U.S. - ZUMAs135

The world continues to mourn the loss of country music icon Dolly Parton, and now Britain's Royal Family has joined the growing wave of tributes. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, the Royal Family honored Parton's extraordinary legacy, remembering her not only as a beloved entertainer but also as a philanthropist whose work touched millions of lives through her philanthropy. The emotional tribute came as fans, celebrities, and public figures across the globe reflected on the impact of a woman whose influence stretched far beyond music.

Parton passed away on August 25 at the age of 80, prompting an outpouring of grief worldwide, including from The Royal Family as well. 

Royal family honors Dolly Parton’s lasting legacy

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Buckingham Palace honored the singer in a special way, with a military band performing Dolly Parton's classic hit 9 to 5 during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The gesture quickly resonated with fans online, with many praising it as a fitting tribute to one of music's most beloved figures. In addition, in the post shared on X, the Royal Family sent a heart the late singer's way. 

"Remembering the late, great Dolly, who brought joy, comfort and inspiration to so many - including the millions of children given free books through her Imagination Library. We will always ❤️ you."

Bilder des Jahres 2024, Entertainment 06 Juni Entertainment Themen der Woche KW23 06 June 2024 - Nashville, Tennessee - Dolly Parton. 2024 â€oeCMA Fest,” A Special Conversation with Global Superstar Dolly Parton at the CMA Close Up Stage inside Fan Fair X. Nashville USA - ZUMAa123 20240606_zaa_a123_025 Copyright: xKindellxBuchananx

The message on X highlighted one of Parton's most celebrated achievements outside of entertainment. Through the Imagination Library, the singer helped provide free books to millions of children, creating a literacy initiative that expanded across multiple countries and became a defining aspect of her legacy. The tribute carried added significance because of its closing words, "We will always [heart] you," a heartfelt nod to one of Parton's most iconic songs, 'I Will Always Love You'.

The phrase has become a common refrain in the tributes pouring in since news of her passing was announced.

J.K. Rowling Shares Emotional Dolly Parton Tribute, Reveals Her “Tongue-Tied” First Meeting

The Royal Family was far from alone in honoring Dolly Parton, as tributes poured in from every corner of the world.

A global outpouring of love

The Royal Family's message arrived as fans continued mourning the heartbreaking loss of Dolly Parton and reflecting on the circumstances surrounding her passing. Artists including Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Reba McEntire, Paul McCartney, and countless others shared emotional messages celebrating her kindness, generosity, and influence on generations of performers.

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Bilder des Jahres 2022, Entertainment 05 Mai Entertainment Themen der Woche KW18 Entertainment Bilder des Tages May 5, 2022, Wilmington, DE, United States of America: Singer DOLLY PARTON receives a gift from Governor Carney during an event to celebrate Dolly Partonâ€⠢s Imagination Library Thursday, May 05, 2022, at the Wilmington Public Library in Wilmington, DE. Wilmington United States of America - ZUMAs124 20220505_zap_s124_016 Copyright: xSaquanxStimpsonx

While Dolly Parton's career produced countless chart-topping hits and memorable screen performances, many of the tributes have focused on her humanitarian work and ability to connect with people from all walks of life as well. As messages continue to pour in, the Royal Family's heartfelt remembrance serves as yet another reminder of the lasting impact Parton left on the world.

The Best Dolly Parton Movies and Shows on Netflix to Warm Your Heart

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What do you think of the Royal Family's touching tribute to Dolly Parton? Let us know in the comments.

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Yamini Vohra

81 articles

Yamini Vohra is an Entertainment Writer at Netflix Junkie. She is an English Honours graduate and Japanese language specialist with a love for drama, fashion, anime, music, and all things pop culture. When she's not working, you'll find her buried in a book, binge-watching vlogs, or being dramatically invested in the latest Netflix obsession.

Edited By: Adiba Nizami

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