Dolly Parton’s family reveals what fans should do instead of sending flowers
By Valerian Khakayi, August 26, 2026Dolly Parton’s family has asked fans to honour the late country music icon by supporting a cause that was close to her heart instead of sending flowers.
In a statement released following Parton’s death, the family said donations should be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in her memory.
“In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library,” the statement reads.
The family also revealed that a small, private funeral service for her immediate family would be held in accordance with Parton’s wishes.
The family also revealed that Parton had requested a small, private service for her immediate family.
“At Dolly’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family,” the statement said.
How fans can honour Dolly Parton
Instead of flowers, Parton’s family is encouraging fans who wish to honour her memory to make donations to the Imagination Library.
The organisation accepts both one-time and monthly donations, with contributions helping support its mission of putting books into the hands of young children.
Fans have also been encouraged to pay tribute to Parton on social media by tagging her official account or leaving messages through her official website.
The family said the private service will be attended by immediate family members, in keeping with Parton’s wishes.
Parton’s Imagination Library remains one of the most significant parts of her philanthropic legacy, linking her love of children and education with her belief in the power of books.
What is Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library?
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book-gifting programme dedicated to encouraging a love of reading among young children.
The programme provides free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five, regardless of their family’s income. It began in Parton’s home county in Tennessee before expanding to other countries.
According to the organisation, the programme now sends more than two million books each month to enrolled children across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and the Republic of Ireland.
Parton previously explained that the programme was inspired by her father, who was unable to read and write. She said her mission was to inspire children to develop a love of reading and give them opportunities to dream.