Dolly Parton, a prominent figure in country music, has died at the age of 80, as announced by her family in a video posted on her Instagram on Tuesday. Bryan Seaver, her nephew and former head of security, shared the news, expressing mixed feelings of pride and sadness. He quoted Parton, stating, "Dolly called me and said she wants to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton because after a life wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest." Parton had been facing health challenges that led to the cancellation of performances, including a Las Vegas residency earlier this year. However, just a week prior, she mentioned in an interview with People that she was still active and had many goals to achieve.
At Parton’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family only. Her family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, friends and fans donate to her Imagination Library foundation. Born on January 19, 1946, in Sevierville, Tennessee, Parton grew up in a large family and faced significant financial hardships. She famously stated in a 2015 NBC News interview, "We didn’t have any money, but we were rich in things that money don’t buy, like love and kindness and understanding."
Parton moved to Nashville the day after graduating high school. Her career began to flourish in 1967 when she appeared on Porter Wagoner’s television show, which led to her recording with RCA. Her first solo album, "Hello, I’m Dolly," was released in the same year, and she subsequently released nearly 50 more albums. Her 2023 album, "Rockstar," debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, marking her highest-charting solo album.
Parton received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2016 Country Music Association Awards. She made history by being the first artist to achieve a No. 1 record twice with the same song, "I Will Always Love You," in 1974 and 1982. Whitney Houston later had a No. 1 hit with her rendition of the song in 1992. Throughout her career, Parton had over two dozen No. 1 titles on the Billboard Country charts and received numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and Country Music Association Awards. She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999 and received the National Medal of Arts in 2005.
Parton was known for her vibrant personality and kindness. Standing at about 5 feet tall, she embraced her appearance and often addressed critics with humor. In a 2011 interview with The Guardian, she remarked, "I do wear high heels in the house; otherwise, I can’t reach the cabinets!" She also shared her admiration for a local woman who inspired her iconic look.
In addition to her music career, Parton was an advocate for love and acceptance, openly supporting same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights. She expressed her understanding of those struggling with their identity, stating, "I’ve always been a freak and different, oddball even in my childhood and my own family."
Parton married Carl Dean in 1966 and maintained a private romantic life, often addressing rumors with humor. She is survived by her family and a legacy that has left a significant impact on the music industry.