Reba McEntire says she missed a call from Dolly Parton before her death: ‘I’ll never know why she called’

Reba McEntire recently shared that she missed a final phone call from her longtime friend Dolly Parton shortly before the legendary singer passed away. Parton died August 25 after a brief battle with cancer, leaving many to wonder about the nature of that final attempt at communication.

It is honestly heartbreaking to imagine missing a call from someone who meant so much to you, only to realize later that it was your last chance to speak with them. McEntire explained that the timing was just unfortunate, as she was tied up in a meeting when the call came through. She told Entertainment Tonight, “She did call me the last of July, and I was in a meeting and I missed her call.”

Despite her best efforts, McEntire was never able to reconnect with her friend. She noted, “I tried to get back in touch with her and I couldn’t, never made a connection. And then when my buddy called me and said, ‘Dolly’s gone,’ I thought, ‘I’ll never know why she called me.’”

The two stars shared a deep professional and personal bond over the years

They collaborated on several notable projects, such as their 2021 cover of Does He Love You for McEntire’s album. Fans of country music also likely remember them co-hosting the 2019 CMA Awards together. McEntire has been busy honoring her friend’s memory in various ways, including a tribute performance at the Emmys where she sang an emotional cover of Appalachian Memories.

Following the news of Parton’s passing, McEntire took to X to share a heartfelt message with her followers. She wrote, “Well, I just got the news that my buddy Dolly passed onto the higher and greater side. Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth.”

She continued, “Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you. We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang.”

She added, “Thank you, Lord, for Dolly. She’s gonna have a blast in heaven singing all her favorite songs with all her family and friends who have gone on before her. I’ll never forget the first time I met you and I’ll never forget our last conversation. I hold it with love in my heart. I will always love you, Reba.”

While the mystery of that final phone call remains, McEntire seems to have found a sense of peace regarding the situation. When discussing the unanswered call, she simply stated, “I’ll find out one day.”