Dolly Parton Dies at 80 After Cancer Battle
Loved ones raced to Nashville as the music icon's health declined, with her sister revealing a selfless final offer for experimental treatment.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Callum Smith
Dolly Parton, the beloved country music legend, has died at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer.
Bryan Seaver, Parton's nephew, announced her passing on Tuesday through an Instagram video. He stated this video announcement fulfilled a request Parton had made of him years prior.
Parton's health concerns first surfaced publicly in September 2025, prompting the postponement of her Las Vegas residency.
Loved ones began a desperate race to Nashville upon news of her hospitalisation. Not all reached her bedside before her passing.
Parton, celebrated for her extensive philanthropy, including funding Covid vaccine research and global literacy schemes, maintained her giving spirit to the very end.
Her sister, Stella Parton, shared a tribute on Facebook on Thursday, revealing the depth of Dolly's generosity.
Stella Parton stated, "She told me recently that if there was no hope for her, she would still allow her medical team to try experimental drugs in the hope of helping others in the future."
Dolly Parton offered to receive experimental cancer drugs, hoping to aid future medical advancements.
Stella Parton described her sister as one of the most generous, thoughtful, and kind people she has ever known. She noted their regular Tuesday morning coffee dates over the phone.
A private service for close friends and relations is understood to be held in Nashville.
Parton's goddaughter, Miley Cyrus, stands among those mourning the loss of the iconic singer.
Bryan Seaver affirmed that Dolly Parton "has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents and countless others who have watched her and longed to meet her in the heavens." He added that Dolly Parton had called him, expressing a desire to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton after a life of wearing heavy rhinestones.
My sister was always thinking of others and if you want to honor her legacy, show more kindness, lift others up and give more of your time and resources as she continued to do to the very end.
Stella Parton urged, "My sister was always thinking of others and if you want to honor her legacy, show more kindness, lift others up and give more of your time and resources as she continued to do to the very end."