Stella Parton has shared that her late sister, Dolly Parton, was willing to test "experimental drugs" during her treatment for cancer.
The celebrated country singer passed away on Tuesday at 80 years old after a "brief battle" with the illness.
In an Instagram post published on Thursday, Stella shared a letter addressing her older sister’s health struggles, which had largely remained out of the public eye.
"What the world saw is exactly who she was, so much so, she told me recently that if there was no hope for her, she would still allow her medical team to try experimental drugs in the hope of helping others in the future," she wrote. "My sister was always thinking of others and if you want to honor her legacy, show more kindness, lift others up and give more of your time and resources as she continued to do to the very end."
The Jolene singer earned widespread recognition for her charitable efforts and advocacy work, including the creation of the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library. She also supported several important causes, including LGBTQ rights and research into infectious diseases.
In another section of the tribute, Stella remembered a touching tradition she regularly enjoyed with Dolly.
"Every Tuesday about this time, before the sun came up and the world was still asleep, she and I for many years had our coffee together over the phone," the 77 year old continued. "Being little farm girls we've continued to be early risers. "As she liked to say; 'Shoot Tedda we get more work done before the sun comes up than most folks do all day long!' We would catch up on gossip, as sisters do, and drink coffee and make plans as it has always been our way."
Closing her message, Stella encouraged admirers to continue living by Dolly’s example and described the star as "one of the most generous, thoughtful and kind people".
"She left the world a better place by being in it so let's follow her example. Love and respect to you all," she concluded.
Dolly’s funeral will take place through a "small, private" ceremony attended by her closest relatives.
