Dolly Parton Remembers Late Naomi Judd: 'Congratulations And Condolences'

Singer Naomi Judd, part of the Grammy-winning duo The Judds and mother of Wynonna and Ashley Judd passed away on Saturday at the age of 76.

Her daughters announced her death in a statement provided to The Associated Press. “Today we sisters experienced a tragedy. We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness,” the statement said. “We are shattered. We are navigating profound grief and know that as we loved her, she was loved by her public. We are in unknown territory.”

Her husband of 32 years, Larry Strickland, released a statement that read, “Naomi Judd's family request privacy during this heartbreaking time. No additional information will be released at this time.”

Many in the entertainment industry, especially those in the country music scene, paid tribute to the late singer after her tragic passing.

“Jolene” singer Dolly Parton posted a statement to her Instagram page to express her condolences for the late star and friend.

“I was so shocked to hear about Naomi’s passing,” Dolly began. “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,” she continued. “I am 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.”

Fans loved the heartwarming statement.

“Leave it to Dolly to express the best condolences,” one user wrote.

“Always classy,” another commented. “Beautiful sentiment.”

“Sorry for the loss of your friend!” another added. “Heartbreaking!”

“Oh Dolly ❤️, you bring comfort where ever you come and go💖💞 Thank you for being you,” said another.

Another shared, “It was an incredible celebration! Love the Judds so much and am super proud of Wynonna and Ashley for appearing despite their heartbreak!”

Dolly was far from alone in paying tribute to the late singer.

Carrie Underwood tweeted, "Country music lost a true legend…sing with the angels, Naomi!!! We’re all sending up prayers for the Judd family today…"

The Oak Ridge Boys tweeted, "Oh Sweet Jesus... Naomi Judd has gone home ... the day before the Judds @countrymusichof induction ... This is [devastating] news... We are saddened beyond words..."

Travis Tritt tweeted, "This is heartbreaking news! Naomi Judd was one of the sweetest people I’ve ever known. I had the honor of working with her in movies and numerous musical events. My deepest heartfelt condolences go out to her family."

John Rich tweeted, "So very sad to hear of #NaomiJudd passing today. I had the great honor of knowing her, and she was no doubt one of the most iconic entertainers ever to make country music. Thinking of my good friend @Wynonna right now, this is a very tough day for her and the family. #TheJudds"

Ty Herndon tweeted, "I am absolutely heartsick to hear the news about Naomi Judd. My heart and my prayers go out to Wynonna, Ashley Judd, and all of us friends and fans who loved and respected her so much. She is irreplaceable — a country music legend will never be forgotten."