Dolly Parton tributes include Kelly Clarkson, Blake Shelton, Bette Midler and Reese Witherspoon

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Dolly Parton, the iconic singer, songwriter, and personality, who died at the age of 80 in Nashville. Her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from a wide array of stars, reflecting her unique and enduring appeal across generations, borders, and political divides.

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Dolly Parton had a way of making everyone feel special, and seen, and welcomed, and as if you were old friends. I will miss her heart and her voice as I am sure millions will.

Kelly Clarkson remembered Parton for her ability to make everyone feel special, seen, and welcomed, likening the feeling to being among old friends. She expressed how much she would miss Parton's heart and voice, acknowledging the incredible gift and talent she shared through her extensive music catalog. Singer-songwriter Linda Ronstadt shared her deep sadness, calling Parton a friend and recalling their recording sessions as one of her life's most extraordinary musical experiences, stating the world is poorer without her.

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I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, Dolly Parton. One of the most extraordinary musical experiences of my life was recording with her. The world is a poorer place without her.

Paul McCartney lauded Parton's unrivaled songwriting, singing, and philanthropy within country music. He noted her clever business sense and her understanding of her music's impact on people globally. McCartney also expressed honor that Parton had sung his song 'Let It Be.' Actor and activist Jane Fonda described Parton as unlike anyone she had ever known, a blend of a playful Southern woman and a deep, soulful thinker who could perceive people's true selves. Fonda cherished their friendship, characterized by hard laughter and shared experiences.

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Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly.

Other notable tributes came from Dionne Warwick, who stated that the Heavenly Father had brought another child home, and Bette Midler, who expressed devastation and predicted national mourning for Parton's "voice of pure gold and a heart to match." Melissa Etheridge also conveyed that words failed to describe Parton's spirit, feeling blessed to have known her.

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I never knew anyone like her. She was simultaneously a naughty, playful southern gal from the hollows of Tennessee and a deep, soulful thinker who could see through people right down to their true selves.