Dolly Parton, the singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist whose career spanned seven decades, has died peacefully in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 80 years old.
Parton is survived by her extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Carl Thomas Dean, who died in 2025, and both her parents, Avie Lee Caroline Owens and Robert Lee Parton, Sr.
A private service will be held for immediate family, at Parton’s request. Her family has asked that in lieu of flowers, tributes take the form of donations to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, her literacy programme for children.
Born into poverty in rural Tennessee, Parton became one of the most recognised entertainers in the world, writing thousands of songs across a career that produced some of country music‘s most enduring recordings.
Beyond the music, she was widely regarded for her philanthropic work, most notably the Imagination Library, which has donated millions of books to children around the world since its founding in 1995.
Fans and friends have been encouraged to share tributes on social media by tagging @DollyParton or leaving a message through the official channel.
President Donald Trump ordered U.S. flags to be lowered across the country for a week beginning at 6 p.m. ET on August 25. “Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
