The entertainment industry has lost another icon. Dolly Parton, the voice and writer behind hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You”, has passed away. She was 80.
Dolly’s team shared the devastating news through her social media. Her nephew and head of security, Brian Seaver, announced the news in a video, saying, “My name is Brian Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I’m representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, Sister, Sis and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next.”
The video continued with Brian paying tribute to his late aunt, noting her philanthropy and impact on society through her music. He also said that Dolly’s team will work hard to ensure her legacy lives on after her passing. Brian ended the video statement, saying, “Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly — Aunt, Granny, Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you all. She will always love you.”
Dolly’s team would share another statement on her passing, revealing that the singer-songwriter died after a brief battle with cancer. She passed away on 25th August 2026 (Tuesday) at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, surrounded by loved ones. At the star’s request, her funeral would be a small, private service held for immediate family. In place of flowers, Dolly’s family has asked for donations to the singer’s Imagination Library program.
Born on 19th January 1946 in a one-room cabin on the banks of the Little Pigeon River in Pittman Center, Tennessee, Dolly grew up to become one of the most respected and honoured stars in the world. In her career spanning six decades, she has composed more than 3,000 songs and received various accolades. Besides her music, Dolly will also be remembered for her philanthropy in education, healthcare and LGBTQ issues, among many.
Her Imagination Library literacy program was founded in honour of her father, Robert Lee Parton, Sr., who never learned to read or write. The program mails one book per month to each enrolled child from their birth until they enter kindergarten. Dolly has also raised funds for medical research. In 2020, her $1 million donation to Vanderbilt University Medical Center funded the critical early stages of development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
Tributes have poured in from all parts of the world following the news of her death. Public figures, including former United States President Barack Obama, television host Jimmy Fallon and singer Sabrina Carpenter, have shared tributes to Dolly through social media. President Donald Trump has also ordered US flags to fly at half-mast nationwide for a week out of respect for the country star.
Dolly is preceded in death by her husband, Carl Dean, her mother, Avie Lee Owens, and her father, Robert. We extend our condolences to Dolly’s family and loved ones. May they find strength during this difficult time, and may she rest in peace.
Sources: Instagram (1)(2), NBC News (1)(2)
