Beloved country music star Dolly Parton died on Tuesday at 80 years old. The announcement came from her social media page in a video by her nephew Bryan Seaver, a request made years ago by Parton herself.
“My name is Brin Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I’m representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, Sister, Sis and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next,” Seaver begins.
While the family did not reveal the cause of death, Parton recently acknowledged “health concerns” following the death of her husband, Carl Dean, in March 2025.
“As I’ve shared in video messages throughout the past year, I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl,” she shared just days ago.
“This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality,” he continues.
“It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly. Dolly 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 for her to meet them in the heavens.”
Parton grew up in Pittman Center, Tennessee, and was one of 11 siblings. She went on to become one of the most successful country artists of all time and a worldwide phenomenon.
President Trump ordered flags to be lowered across the U.S. for one week, beginning Tuesday night, to honor the country music legend.
“This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will… Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you,” Trump said, reacting to the news on Truth Social.
Ten years ago, the Daily Signal interviewed Dolly Parton on the importance of faith and family. You can watch the interview here.
At the 2016 movie premiere for her film “Coat of Many Colors,” inspired by her childhood and family as their faith was tested, she told the Daily Signal why it was so important for her to make the film.
“You don’t have to make money to be rich,” she said. “You can be rich in spirit, you can be rich in thought, and rich in your soul.”
