"I Will Always Love You": Country Legend and Philanthropist Dolly Parton Dies at 80
- Dolly Parton's family confirmed her death on 25 August 2026 in a statement posted to her official Instagram account
- The country music legend had publicly spoken about ongoing health struggles in the weeks leading up to her passing
- Her family encouraged fans to donate to her Imagination Library children's literacy charity in lieu of flowers
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Source: Getty Images
One of the most beloved voices in American music history has fallen silent. Dolly Parton, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 80 on 25 August 2026. Her family broke the news through a statement shared on her official Instagram account.
No cause of death was given. However, Parton had been candid about her declining health in the weeks before her death. She cancelled a planned appearance at Dollywood in mid-August after her doctor advised against travel, and in an interview with People magazine published just days before she died, she admitted to "dealing with some health issues" she had put on the back burner while caring for her late husband. A Las Vegas residency had also been postponed and eventually cancelled entirely in May 2026, with the star citing the need for more recovery time.
A legacy that spanned seven decades
Dolly Parton's career produced some of the most enduring songs in popular music, among them 'Jolene,' '9 to 5,' and 'I Will Always Love You,' a song she wrote that reached global audiences a second time through Whitney Houston's iconic rendition in The Bodyguard. Her contribution to music earned her a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999, followed by induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, as well as a National Medal of Arts and Kennedy Center Honors.
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Her influence stretched well beyond the recording studio. Dollywood, the Tennessee theme park she built near her childhood home in Sevierville, became a major attraction, while her Imagination Library charity distributed millions of free books to children around the world.
Check out the Instagram video below:
Family's tribute to Dolly Parton
Her family's statement captured the depth of her impact: "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."
A small, private memorial service will be held for immediate family. Fans wishing to pay their respects have been invited to share memories on social media or leave a message on her official website. Parton was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Carl Dean, who passed away in March 2025 at the age of 82.
Danny K's wife passed away
South African musician Danny K is grieving the loss of his wife, Lisa Koppel, who passed away at the age of 41.
The family confirmed the news on Monday morning but declined to issue a formal statement or reveal the cause of death.
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Source: Briefly News
