Dolly Parton’s sister Stella Parton is reassuring fans that the Parton family remains united as a legal dispute surrounding the late country icon’s estate continues to unfold.
In a statement shared Sept. 24, Stella emphasized that her family is supporting one another while remembering Dolly and the legacy she left behind. Her message came one day before Sept. 25, which has been dubbed “Dolly Day,” and also marked nearly one month since Dolly’s death.
“Tomorrow will be one month since my big sister Dolly left us,” Stella wrote, adding that she still feels Dolly’s presence. She also reflected on the lasting impact of Dolly’s kindness, saying the goodness she planted in people’s lives would continue to grow.
Stella thanked fans for the tremendous love and support shown to the family, while noting that they have experienced another painful loss this year. Dolly’s older brother, Coy “Denver” Parton, died in July at age 82.
Stella Addresses the Family’s Legal Troubles
While Stella did not go into detail about the ongoing dispute involving Dolly’s former manager Danny Nozell and her nephew and former security chief Bryan Seaver, she made it clear that the family is standing together.
Her statement came after reports of a legal battle involving Nozell and Seaver. Seaver and his security company were reportedly removed from their roles at Dolly’s Nashville properties. A judge also granted a temporary restraining order involving Seaver and Nozell’s employees following allegations made by Nozell.
The allegations, including statements cited in court filings, have not been established as fact.
Stella urged fans not to judge the family based solely on reports appearing in the media. She said the family is continuing to live day by day, remain grateful, and support one another through the difficult period.
She also highlighted the younger members of the family, explaining that Dolly’s children and grandchildren are dealing with the loss of their matriarch and looking to the older generation for strength and guidance.
Freida Parton Also Emphasizes Family Unity
Stella’s comments follow a statement from another of Dolly’s sisters, Freida Parton, who also pushed back against reports of a family feud.
Freida said there was no feud within the Parton/Owens family and stated that the family members continue to love one another, including Bryan Seaver.
Dolly Parton died on Aug. 25 at age 80. As her loved ones continue to grieve, Stella’s message places the emphasis on family, remembrance, and preserving Dolly’s legacy rather than the ongoing legal controversy.