Dolly Parton is paying tribute to hear dear friend, the late, great Naomi Judd.
Naomi tragically passed away by suicide on Saturday, just one day before her induction to the Country Music Hall of Fame with her daughter, Wynonna, as the iconic duo The Judds.
Naomi openly struggled with her mental health for years, and her daughters Wynonna and Ashley mustered the strength to get up and speak at the Medallion ceremony yesterday, fighting back tears in order to honor their mother with an incredibly moving and heart-wrenching speech.
And today, Dolly put out a statement regarding the sudden passing of her friend, noting that they were very similar, both Capricorns, and “loved big hair, makeup and music.”
They go back decades, and Dolly also noted how much she loved Wynonna and Ashley and wished she could’ve been at yesterday’s ceremony to support the family.
She poignantly remarked that “congratulations and condolences are in order,” posting the statement across her social media accounts with a simple “heart” emoji as the caption.
You can read her full statement below:
“I was so shocked to hear about Naomi’s passing. Naomi and I were close. We were very similar. We were the same age and both Capricorns.
We loved big hair, makeup and music. I have always loved Ashley, Wynonna and Naomi. They’ve always been like sisters to me. Congratulations Wynonna for you and your mom being inducted into the Hall of Fame yesterday.
I am so sorry I couldn’t be there but I can hear Naomi saying now ‘Oh well, a day late and a Dolly short.’ Congratulations and condolences are both in order.
Just know that I will always love you.”
It’s an absolutely heartbreaking situation all the way around, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this extremely difficult time.
You can watch Ashley and Wynonna’s tearful acceptance speech here:
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or text Crisis Text Line at 741741 if you or someone you know is considering suicide.
