Tennessee native, country music icon Dolly Parton dead at 80
Country music icon, businesswoman, Tennessee native, and philanthropist Dolly Parton died Tuesday at the age of 80, according to a message posted by her nephew and head of security Bryan Seaver on Dolly’s official Instagram account.
Information posted by TMZ said Parton was admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Friday with kidney and autoimmune issues. Her health had become the main topic of discussion for the past two years when her visits to her Dollywood theme park became less frequent, including appearing via video for the official unveiling of the venue’s newest ride.
A statement issued to media by Dollywood said the park would be open on Wednesday “as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle – the show must go own.”
Parton crafted her singing voice by attending church choir sessions as a child and by listening to her mother sing traditional hymns. By the age of 13, she had appeared at the Grand Ole Opry, signed a recording deal with fellow star Porter Wagoner, then broke out on her own with a number one single on the Billboard Country Chart just ten years after she graduated from Sevier County High School.
Her last public appearance was in June in Cornersville, Tennessee, to help open the first in a chain of Dolly-themed truck stops that are planned for more locations in the state.
Before that, Parton had noted her health problems had increased, letting herself go, she said, as she cared for her husband Carl who died one year ago.
Shortly after Parton’s death was announced, Governor Bill Lee ordered flags at state establishments to be lowered to half staff in honor of “Tennessee’s favorite daughter.”
Here is the statement issued by executives at Dollywood after the announcement of Dolly’s death:
With heavy hearts, the Dollywood family mourns the passing of our beloved Dreamer-in-Chief, Dolly Parton. Everyone at Dollywood shares the sorrow of countless people around the world touched by Dolly’s warmth, wisdom and generous spirit.
Dolly’s heartfelt wish was that Dollywood always remain a place of joy, hope and togetherness—a space where families and friends could honor her memory, not with silence, but with laughter, music and shared dreams.
“The greatest privilege of my life has been helping Dolly bring her dreams to life at Dollywood,” said Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President. “Dolly’s heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds. She inspired generations to dream boldly and love deeply. While we grieve her loss, we are honored and committed to carry her light forward. Her legacy will continue to shine in every melody sung, every smile shared and every dream kindled within these gates.”
Dolly’s enduring legacy extends beyond her music and generosity to her remarkable work ethic—an inspiration to people everywhere. In her spirit, Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle — “the show must go on.” Together, we honor her by carrying forward her message of love, perseverance, and hope.
Those wishing to give in honor of Dolly may consider making a gift to the organization she was so deeply passionate about, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
(IMAGE: Property of Dolly Parton official Instagram)
