PHOTO CREDIT: Pulse Nigeria / Dolly Parton official family statement
Country Music Icon Dolly Parton Dies at 80

Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80.

The iconic singer passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee. Her death was first announced by her nephew, Brian Seaver, in an emotional Instagram post where he said: “I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness.”

Parton’s health had been a concern over the past year, following the cancellation of her Las Vegas residency in May.

Tributes have continued to pour in for the global superstar whose remarkable seven-decade career made her one of the most beloved figures in music history. Known for her powerful storytelling, she redefined country music with timeless hits including ‘Jolene’ and ‘I Will Always Love You’ — the latter becoming a worldwide phenomenon after Whitney Houston’s rendition.

Beyond music, Parton was also an accomplished actress, starring in Hollywood classics such as Rhinestone (1984), Steel Magnolias (1989), and Joyful Noise (2012). Her illustrious career earned her 11 Grammy Awards, 11 Country Music Awards, 39 BMI Awards, and nominations for Oscar, Emmy, Golden Globe, and Tony Awards.

United States President Donald Trump led tributes, describing Parton as one of the greatest singers of all time, and ordered that American flags across the country be flown at half-mast for a week in her honour.

In an official statement shared on her X account, her family said:
“Global icon and humanitarian Dolly Parton, known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author, died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 80 years old… Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience.”
The statement added that Dolly was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Carl Thomas Dean (1942–2025). Per her request, a small private service will be held for immediate family only. Fans have been asked to pay tribute on social media by tagging @DollyParton or leaving a message at dollyparton.com. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to her Imagination Library at imaginationlibrary.com.

She will be remembered not just for her music, but for her wit, warmth, generosity and lifelong philanthropy.
Source: USA TODAY / AFP via Malay Mail