Dolly Parton

Dolly Rebecca Parton, beloved singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman, philanthropist, and one of the most cherished voices in American music, passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on January 19, 1946, in Sevier County, Tennessee, Dolly’s remarkable life was a true story of perseverance, talent, generosity, and unwavering faith.

Dolly possessed a rare ability to make people feel seen, valued, and loved. She never forgot where she came from and dedicated much of her life to giving back. Through the Dollywood Foundation and her Imagination Library, she helped inspire a lifelong love of reading in children around the world, sharing hundreds of millions of books with families and leaving an immeasurable mark on generations to come.

She was a woman of remarkable talent and even greater heart. Behind the rhinestones and legendary blonde hair was a person known for her kindness, humility, generosity, and belief in the power of dreams. Whether through a song, a smile, a laugh, or a simple act of compassion, Dolly made the world brighter.

Dolly’s life was a beautiful reminder that greatness does not require forgetting one’s roots. She carried the spirit of the Tennessee mountains with her wherever she went and inspired countless people to dream bigger, love harder, and never be ashamed of who they are.

Though the world has lost an extraordinary entertainer, her music will continue to play, her stories will continue to inspire, and her generosity will continue to change lives.

Dolly Parton was truly one of a kind—a shining star whose light will never fade. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated.

Dolly is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years Carl Thomas Dean (1942 – 2025), her mother Avie Lee Caroline Owens (1923 – 2003), and father, Robert Lee Parton, Sr. (1921 – 2000).

Harris Funeral Directors invites members of the public to honor Dolly Parton's memory by signing a guestbook that will be available during regular business hours until Friday, September 4, 2026. The online guestbook will remain accessible for anyone wishing to share a message, memory, or expression of sympathy.

The book will be presented to the Parton family as a tribute to the countless lives Dolly touched through her music, generosity, and enduring spirit. It serves as a collective expression of gratitude and love from fans and community members whose lives were enriched by her remarkable legacy.

In lieu of flowers, Dolly's family requests that donations be made to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library at https://donate.imaginationlibrary.com

“If you see someone without a smile, give them yours.” — Dolly Parton