Dolly Parton Reacts to Loss of Betty White: ‘I Will Always Love Her’

Dolly Parton is speaking out about the loss of her friend, Betty White. The acting legend was 99 years old when she passed away on December 31, with her loss being mourned by celebrities across the country, including by Parton.

“While watching the news last night I learned of Betty White’s passing,” Parton wrote. “Betty will live forever not only in this world but the world here after. I will always love her as we all will!”

Parton is not the only celebrity who spoke out about White’s passing. Bill Anderson and Naomi Judd, both who had the privilege of working with White over the years, also reflected on her legacy.

“I had the privilege of working alongside Betty White on many occasions back in my game show days of the late ’70s and early ’80s,” Anderson said. “We appeared together on Match Game, Tattletales, and Password Plus, and she always went out of her way to make me feel welcome. She kept us all laughing with her incredible sense of humor, while at the same time always performing as the consummate professional. I feel so honored to have known her.”

“Betty and I worked together at American Humane Association,” added Judd. “We shared our passion rescuing abused animals. She may have looked like she’d just come from a bridge party, but then she’d crack a joke with a sexual innuendo. She was one of my role models. I also knew her late husband, Alan Luden when I was a contestant on Password.”

White would have turned 100 on January 17. The Golden Girls star, who passed away in her sleep, recently reflected on her longevity.

“I’m so lucky to be in such good health and feel so good at this age,” White told People. “It’s amazing.”

When asked about the secret to almost hitting 100 years old White replied with her typical humor.

“I try to avoid anything green,” she quipped. “I think it’s working.”

Funeral services have to be announced.