Kenny Rogers’ family breaks silence after Dolly Parton’s death with emotional tribute
By Valerian Khakayi, August 26, 2026Kenny Rogers’ family has broken its silence following the death of country music icon Dolly Parton, remembering her for the special bond she shared with the late singer and the joy she brought to millions of fans.
In an emotional tribute, the Rogers family described it as “painstakingly hard” to put into words what Parton meant to Kenny and to their family.
The tribute highlighted the deep friendship between Rogers and Parton, who became one of country music’s most beloved duos through their music and longstanding personal relationship.
“When the two of you sang about being islands in the stream who together had found peace unknown, having real love for each other as true friends who would always stand by each other, and how you just can’t make old friends, it was always as genuine as it could possibly be,” the family said.
The Rogers family said the emotions expressed through the pair’s music reflected the genuine affection and friendship they shared.
They also thanked Parton for the happiness, laughter, songs and stories she brought into their lives, saying a simple thank you could never fully capture her impact.
“Saying a simple, yet sincere thank you could never be enough for bringing so much joy, laughter, and amazing songs and stories into our lives,” the family said.
Kenny Rogers’ family praises Dolly Parton’s legacy
The family praised Parton’s character, describing her spirit as compassionate, positive, friendly and immensely generous.
They said those qualities would remain part of the legacy she leaves behind, touching the lives of millions of people around the world.
“Your irreplaceable spirit of compassion, positivity, friendliness, and immense generosity will live on with your remarkable legacy,” the tribute read.
The family also used an emotional image to describe Parton’s death, saying they had to accept that she had “simply traded your butterfly wings in for angel wings.”
Despite their grief, the Rogers family said they were grateful Parton had been able to live a vibrant and meaningful life while using her talents to make a difference in the lives of others.
The family acknowledged the pain of losing Parton but said they were also thankful for the life she lived and the impact she had on millions.
“Though we write this through tears and feelings of extraordinary grief and sadness, at the same time we realise how thankful we are that you were able to live such a vibrant and meaningful life using your many God-given talents,” they said.
The tribute ended with a message of love, as the family said they would continue to remember Parton.
“Dolly, we will think of you every step of the way…and we will ALWAYS love you!” the family said.
Rogers and Parton had a celebrated musical partnership, with their collaborations becoming some of the most recognisable moments in country music.
Their 1983 duet Islands in the Stream, written by the Bee Gees, became a major hit and remains closely associated with both artists.
The emotional tribute from Rogers’ family has renewed attention on the friendship and musical legacy shared by Rogers and Parton as fans continue to remember the two country music legends.