What you wrote was just lovely, and very kind.
My mom recently passed at the age of 96. She had many health issues, becoming almost overwhelming. However, she wanted very much to see her 6th great-grandchild be born. His dad (my nephew) was truly like a son to her, she cared for him from infancy while his mom worked, she helped him with college costs and attended his many sporting events. She got to hold the baby and love on him and then seemed ready to let go. She was tired of hurting and ready to go home to Jesus and we all understood. At that point my prayers turned to “in your time, Jesus/God” rather than asking for healing.
Sometimes a loved one asks for prayers because they aren’t ready to let go, or they know there is unfinished business. Most will do it quietly, within their own circle. I don’t see the harm in Dolly’s sister asking for this in a bigger public way, especially if it gives her a measure of comfort and peace.
My mom lived to be 93. The last time I saw her she told me she was not going back to the doctor or the ER. There are no more miracles she said. I’ve had a good life. I’ve seen my kids grow up and be successful. I’ve been to weddings and held grandchildren and great grandchildren. I’m ready. She died of a stroke 4 days later.
I think most people know when it’s time. I’m 74, generally healthy except for a recent diagnose of prostate cancer. It’s not high risk and the surgeon believes I’ll die of something else long before the cancer gets me. He said probably 15-20 years on the cancer. But it focuses you when someone puts a number to what you’ve already been thinking. If I can get 15 more healthy years I’ll take it, but I don’t want to be sick and in pain for years just to hold on to life. There is living and there is being alive. They are not the same.