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Dolly Parton, country music legend, dies aged 80
25th August, 2026 10:08 PM
American country music legend Dolly Parton has died aged 80, with the news of her death announced by her nephew, Brian Seaver, on Tuesday night, August 25,2026.
Seaver said he was representing the Parton and Owen families as he announced the passing of the celebrated singer, songwriter and actress.
“My name is Brian Seaver, and I am representing the Parton and Owen family today, announcing the passing of my aunt Rebecca Dolly Parton Dean, sister, Sis and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next,” Parton’s nephew Brian Seaver said in a video announcement.
Seaver described Parton’s death as a painful moment for the family but said she had lived a life filled with faith and light.
“Sadness lies with us, not with Dolly. Dolly lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely. Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly, Aunt, Granny, Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you all. She will always love you,” he said.
He also revealed that the announcement was something Parton had personally asked him to make years ago.
“This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it till now,” he added.
Funeral plans
Her family has also announced that a small, private service will be held for immediate family members, in accordance with the country music legend’s wishes.
The family has also encouraged her fans and friends around the world to honour her memory by sharing tributes on social media or leaving messages on her official website.
Instead of sending flowers, mourners have been asked to make donations to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a literacy initiative close to the singer’s heart.
“At Dolly’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family. Dolly’s fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly on social media by tagging @DollyParton or by leaving a message at http://dollyparton.com,” Parton’s family said.
“In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library at http://imaginationlibrary.com.”
Health struggles
Her death comes after Parton suddenly announced in May 2026 that she was cancelling a Las Vegas show and said she had been undergoing treatment for kidney stones for several years.
“Lord, they dig more stones out of me a year than the rock quarry in Rockwood, Tennessee,” Parton said in a statement.
“But seriously, my immune system and my digestive system got all out of whack over the past couple of three years, and they’re working real hard on rebuilding and strengthening those, and hopefully I’ll be up to snuff again soon.”
Dolly Parton’s legacy
Parton’s death brings an end to a decades-long career that made her one of the most recognisable figures in country music.
Born in Tennessee, Parton rose from humble beginnings to become a globally celebrated singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist. She was known for hits including “Jolene”, “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You”.
Her songwriting career also earned her recognition beyond country music, with “I Will Always Love You” becoming a worldwide hit after Whitney Houston recorded her version for The Bodyguard soundtrack.
Beyond music, Parton was widely admired for her philanthropic work. Through her Imagination Library initiative, she supported children’s literacy by providing free books to young children.
Parton’s personal life also attracted public interest, particularly her long marriage to Carl Dean. The couple were married for nearly 60 years before Dean died in March 2025.
Her death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow entertainers, with many celebrating her contribution to music, entertainment and charitable causes.
Parton leaves behind a legacy spanning generations, with her distinctive voice, songwriting and larger-than-life personality making her one of the most enduring figures in American music.
