Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her family has confirmed.
In a statement shared on Tuesday (August 25), they wrote: “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth and kindness that made us all feel like family.
“Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience,” they continued. “With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.”
“Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
In a video shared to her social media pages, Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, confirmed the news, sharing: “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
“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 until now.
“But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly,” he elaborated. “Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents and countless others who have watched her and longed to meet her in the heavens.
“Dolly opened doors not just for me but for her entire family to reach the potential we didn’t even know was possible. Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life and across every continent.”
Parton had spoken publicly about her health in recent months, and last month told fans in an update that she was dealing with issues she had neglected while caring for her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, prior to his death last year.
Now, her team has confirmed that the ‘Jolene’ singer died following a brief battle with cancer, saying in a statement (via Billboard): “Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched.
“Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand.
“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.”
They added: “After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”
