Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country music, has died aged 80.
Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced the news on behalf of the family on Tuesday, saying, “Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus.” Her cause of death has not been disclosed.
Fans and friends from around the world are paying tribute to the legendary singer, known for her hits “9 to 5” and “Jolene.”
Fellow country singer Reba McEntire wrote in part on X, “Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you.”
Donald Trump ordered flags to fly at half mast in the U.S. to honor Parton, writing on Truth Social: “This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”
Dolly Parton dead at 80
- Dolly Parton death: Beloved Queen of Country who sang ‘Jolene’ and ‘9 to 5’, dies aged 80
- How country music’s most famous face remained an enigma to the end
- Billy Ray Cyrus reflects on tabloid affair rumors as he pays respects
- Dolly Parton's nephew Bryan Seaver shares statement on behalf of family
- Donald Trump orders flags to be lowered in honor of Dolly Parton
Al Gore: ‘I’m especially grateful’
00:42 , Kevin Perry
Former Vice President Al Gore wrote on X: “In one of her many memorable hit songs, Dolly Parton famously sang about a ‘9 to 5’ job that was ‘all taking and no giving.’
“So, in looking back on her amazing legacy, it's fitting to remember her for all her giving to others throughout her life: all the joy she gave us all with her incredibly beautiful songwriting, her captivating voice, and her endless creative pursuits. The 300 million free books she gave to children across America and around the world through her Imagination Library. All the fun she gave to families who visited Dollywood. The crucial funding and support she gave for medical research into pediatric cancer, infectious diseases, and not least, the Moderna COVID vaccine.
“She gave funding to provide shelter and food for the victims of disasters. I’m especially grateful for all that she gave back to our beloved home state of Tennessee. For many, her lasting gift is the inspiration to give back to our own communities with the same passion, humor, and conviction as Dolly. God bless her and may she rest in peace. We will always love her!”
In one of her many memorable hit songs, Dolly Parton famously sang about a “9 to 5” job that was “all taking and no giving.” So, in looking back on her amazing legacy, it's fitting to remember her for all her giving to others throughout her life: all the joy she gave us all with…
— Al Gore (@algore) August 25, 2026
Dolly Parton’s Dollywood fate revealed after Queen of Country’s death
00:38 , Kevin PerryThe show must go on. That’s the motto that Dolly Parton’s namesake theme park is abiding by in the wake of the country music legend’s death.
Read more here:
Dolly Parton’s Dollywood fate revealed after Queen of Country’s death
Former Simpsons showrunner remembers Dolly as 'naturally funny'
00:33 , Kevin PerryAmong her many film and television appearances, Parton made a cameo as herself on the 1999 The Simpsons episode “Sunday, Cruddy Sunday”, which was set at the Super Bowl.
On X, former showrunner Mike Scully wrote: “She was a delight to direct & so naturally funny. She loved the joke about her make-up remover being strong enough to blow open a jailhouse door. I had her do a few extra unnecessary takes just to make the experience last a little longer. Brightened the day of all in room.”
She was a delight to direct & so naturally funny. She loved the joke about her make-up remover being strong enough to blow open a jailhouse door. I had her do a few extra unnecessary takes just to make the experience last a little longer. Brightened the day of all in room. https://t.co/Hm4EUKqTuH
— Mike Scully (@scullymike) August 25, 2026
Jimmy Fallon pays tribute to Dolly Parton: ‘Beautiful. Magical. Dreamy’
00:26 , Kevin Perry
“I was lucky enough to know and work with the one and only Dolly Parton. She was a phenomenal guest on the show; always funny and always made everyone she met feel like a million dollars,” late night host Fallon wrote on X.
“We did duets together, laughed together and danced through Dollywood in the Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge. And even though we did all that, I would still get butterflies just being in her presence. And that’s kind of what I think of when I think of Dolly. She’s a butterfly. Beautiful. Magical. Dreamy. And like most butterflies, they stay for a moment - captivate you, fascinate you, mesmerize you and then fly away far too soon.
“I love you Dolly. I will always miss you.”
I was lucky enough to know and work with the one and only Dolly Parton. She was a phenomenal guest on the show; always funny and always made everyone she met feel like a million dollars. We did duets together, laughed together and danced through Dollywood in the Smoky Mountains… pic.twitter.com/tPGEzfYpCz
— Jimmy Fallon (@jimmyfallon) August 25, 2026
Shania Twain honors Dolly Parton: ‘Pure light sent from heaven’
00:24 , Kevin Perry
“Dolly was pure light sent from heaven. My mentor is gone. My songwriting teacher and hero of grace and humility,” country singer Twain wrote.
“There is a hole in my heart but the joy of just the thought of her smile will continue to fill me with inspiration for as long as I live. I will cherish this moment performing Coat Of Many Colors with Dolly forever. Goodbye Dolly. Rest in peace, beautiful angel.”
Dolly was pure light sent from heaven. My mentor is gone. My songwriting teacher and hero of grace and humility. There is a hole in my heart but the joy of just the thought of her smile will continue to fill me with inspiration for as long as I live. I will cherish this moment… pic.twitter.com/x2noNjLgou
— Shania Twain 💎💎💎 (@ShaniaTwain) August 25, 2026
Paul McCartney pays tribute to 'magnificent', 'wonderful' Dolly
00:22 , Kevin Perry-d1bbe4e6.jpeg)
Beatles star Paul McCartney posted a thoughtful tribute to Parton, writing on social media:
“The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died and it is so sad. She was such a wonderful woman. I first met her in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry where she had been playing with the country star Porter Wagoner and was about to start her solo career. She was so bubbly and full of life it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed. Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly. She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of her music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world. There was no greater honour for me than to have her sing my song ‘Let It Be’ and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honoured that she did it. I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents.”
Ben Stiller shares memory of Dolly appearing on SNL
00:09 , Kevin Perry
In memory of Parton, Ben Stiller recalled working with the singer while still a fledgling performer on Saturday Night Live.
The Zoolander star wrote: “Dolly Parton memory: her being incredibly nice and cool to EVERYONE when i was on SNL in 1988 as a featured player/apprentice writer and wrote a sketch for her and me that bombed at readthrough and she totally sold it as it bombed and was so kind about it and I never met her again but always wanted to thank her for being so cool and making me and everyone feel special. What an icon, and for so long. A person who emanated goodness, and of course, a brilliant songwriter and performer. Sending love to her family and friends.”
Sabrina Carpenter says she and Dolly could have been 'sisters'
23:59 , Kevin Perry
One of Parton’s final collaborations was on a duet version of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please”.
The pop star recalled their first meeting on Instagram, writing:
“oh dolly 💔 the only thing i could say after we first met was ‘she really is an angel walking the earth’ and ‘we look like we could be sisters!’ i will cherish our laughter and conversations and i will keep your wisdom, your playful outlook on life, and perfect sense of humor in my pocket for the rainy days. there will never be another you and how lucky are we all to have experienced your singular magic as well as your once in a lifetime voice, songs, and heart. your light will be something the world will search forever to find again 🦋🦋🦋 i will always love you.”
Obama says few will have 'bigger impact than Dolly Parton'
23:36 , Kevin Perry
Former President Barack Obama is among the many to pay tribute to Parton, writing on X:
“It’s hard to imagine many people having a bigger impact than Dolly Parton. Born in a one-room cabin, she earned 11 Grammys and an Emmy, built a business empire, helped millions of kids learn to read, and — as if that wasn’t enough — helped accelerate the research that led to the Moderna COVID vaccine. What a life. Michelle and I are thinking of Dolly’s family and her many, many fans.”
J.K. Rowling highlights Dolly's contribution to child literacy
23:33 , Kevin Perry
The Harry Potter creator took the time to point out Parton’s philanthropic work, on top of her music.
She wrote on X: “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library was the best contribution to child literacy ever made by a celebrity. Our paths crossed once, in the 90s, backstage at a talk show, and I was completely tongue-tied and starstruck. RIP Dolly. You were a complete, irreplaceable one-off.”
Blake Shelton: ‘Truly a loss for the entire world’
23:28 , Kevin Perry
“I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today,” the country singer wrote in a post on X.
“I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family. Truly a loss for the entire world. We love you Dolly.”
I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today. I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like… pic.twitter.com/9ycD4lSpO9
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) August 25, 2026
Barbara Eden says there’s ‘a void in the heart of Americana’
23:23 , Kevin Perry
The I Dream of Jeannie star honored Parton in a heartfelt message on X.
“I know I speak for many when I state that there is now a void in the heart of Americana... no, the whole world, that may never be filled,” Eden wrote.
“Dolly, words cannot define the enormity of your talent, the breadth of your kindness, the depth of your compassion and the expanse in which your legend will carry on in perpetuity.
“It was an honor and privilege to have met you at the Country Music Awards. I knew then as so many others have said; you were not only someone whose smile and presence were larger than life, your heart was even larger.
“I lift my eyes upward and know that while you've left us here, you're singing amongst the angels, assuredly giving the host of Heaven a run for their money.”
I know I speak for many when I state that there is now a void in the heart of Americana... no, the whole world, that may never be filled.
— Barbara Eden (@Barbara_Eden) August 25, 2026
Dolly, words cannot define the enormity of your talent, the breadth of your kindness, the depth of your compassion and the expanse in which… pic.twitter.com/plYayS9xlT
Trump orders flags at half mast to honor Dolly
23:21 , Kevin PerryIvanka Trump shares tribute to ‘true original’
23:20 , Kevin Perry
The daughter of President Donald Trump paid respects to the late Dolly Parton on X.
“A couple years ago on @lexfridman podcast I cited a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated within me since I first heard it. ‘I don't criticize and condemn; I love and accept,’” Trump wrote.
“That quote, like so much of what made Dolly Parton an American icon, was deceptively simple — uncomplicated on its face but profound and deeply moving beneath the surface.
“Goodbye to a bright light. A peerless singer, incredible songwriter, gifted comic actress, tireless philanthropist, accomplished businesswoman and true original. We never met but I adored and admired Dolly greatly.”
A couple years ago on @lexfridman podcast I cited a piece of wisdom from @DollyParton that has resonated within me since I first heard it. "I don't criticize and condemn; I love and accept."
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) August 25, 2026
That quote, like so much of what made Dolly Parton an American icon, was deceptively…
Jack White offers two-word tribute
23:18 , Kevin Perry
Jack White, who once covered “Jolene” with his band the White Stripes, kept his tribute short and succinct.
“Instant Sainthood,” wrote the musician on social media, alongside a vintage photograph.
Kamala Harris honors ‘true American icon’
23:15 , Kevin Perry
In a statement on X, Harris wrote: “Dolly Parton was a true American icon. First introduced to the world as a ‘little girl from up in East Tennessee,’ she became a global superstar.
“Her career accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and — my favorite — more than 300 million books sent to millions of children around the world through her Imagination Library. All at once she was kind, modest, and funny. With her music, her philanthropy, and her style, Dolly was one of one.
“Doug and I send our prayers to her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her magic. We will always love you, Dolly.”
Dolly Parton was a true American icon. First introduced to the world as a "little girl from up in East Tennessee," she became a global superstar.
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) August 25, 2026
Her career accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and — my favorite — more than 300 million books sent to… pic.twitter.com/cxLpUYSiih
Family of Loretta Lynn pay tribute to Dolly
23:13 , Kevin Perry
Lynn’s family honored Dolly Parton with a montage of photos and a statement on X.
“Our whole family is devastated to hear of Dolly’s passing. Dolly was an icon, a legend, a world unto herself. But even more, she was mom’s friend. She was her ‘mountain sister,’” they wrote on behalf of Lynn, who died in 2022.
“They understood each other. Our hearts go out to all of Dolly’s family and team. We take comfort in knowing the Honky Tonk Angels are together again and that one day, we will hear them live again. Sending our love, The Lynn Family”
Our whole family is devastated to hear of Dolly’s passing. Dolly was an icon, a legend, a world unto herself. But even more, she was mom’s friend. She was her “mountain sister”. They understood each other. Our hearts go out to all of Dolly’s family and team. We take comfort in… pic.twitter.com/78Q4H7yeW6
— Loretta Lynn (@LorettaLynn) August 25, 2026
Eminem shares sweet message from Parton
22:57 , Kevin PerryThe rapper Marshall Mathers, better known as Eminem, shared a thoughtful message he received from Parton after being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
On X, he captioned the note: “I’m sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had a an impact on me. She definitely didn't have to take the time to do it. Even for a kid who mostly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense. Rest easy Dolly. And thank you for the kind words.”
I'm sorry we never got a chance to meet, but getting this note from Dolly really had a an impact on me. She definitely didn't have to take the time to do it. Even for a kid who mostly listened to rap music, she was an icon. A superstar in every sense. Rest easy Dolly. And thank… pic.twitter.com/LPHi3cKe5m
— Marshall Mathers (@Eminem) August 25, 2026
Linda Ronstadt remembers 'extraordinary' experience recording with Parton
22:49 , Kevin Perry
Linda Ronstadt, who famously collaborated with Parton and Emmylou Harris as the Trio, wrote on Instagram:
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, Dolly Parton. One of the most extraordinary musical experiences of my life was recording with her. The world is a poorer place without her.”
Billy Ray Cyrus reflects on tabloid affair rumors as he pays respects
22:37 , Kevin Perry
Billy Ray Cyrus had a long history with Dolly Parton, as the “Achy Breaky Heart” singer recalled in an emotional Instagram post.
He wrote: “I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms.
“In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her. In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!’
“Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will.”
Oprah remembers 'girl from the Smoky Mountains'
22:29 , Kevin Perry
Speaking to her official website, Oprah Winfrey paid tribute to Parton and said: “This girl from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee dreamed a life and then lived a life bigger than she could have ever imagined, giving so generously to others in ways we saw and ways we didn’t. She brought the light, and we are all better because she was here. God bless you, Dolly—you earned your wings.”
Dolly Parton will be honored on Broadway
22:05 , Carsen HoladayDolly: A True Original Musical is slated to begin performances on Broadway this December.
Dolly Parton served as one of the producers for the show's 2025 out-of-town production in Tennessee.
The show will open January 19, 2027 — on what would have been Parton’s 81st birthday.
Fans honor Dolly Parton with memorials
21:58 , Carsen HoladayDolly Parton is being remembered with makeshift memorials at her Hollywood Walk of Fame star.
Jane Fonda pays tribute
21:54 , Carsen HoladayJane Fonda, who starred alongside Dolly Parton in the classic 1980 workplace comedy 9 to 5, wrote on Instagram that she is “devastated.”
“I just learned that Dolly has moved on,” Fonda wrote. “I know that millions are mourning and I want to say this – more than anyone I have ever known, Dolly will always be with us because she was so present, so powerful, so generous and playful that she is woven into all our lives and hearts forever.”
She continued, “I never knew anyone like her. She was simultaneously a naughty, playful southern gal from the hollows of Tennessee and a deep, soulful thinker who could see through people right down to their true selves.”
Fonda noted that Parton had a “survivor’s instinct and seemed to always know just what to do, just what to say, to make things right...and then she’d stick her butt out the car window and moon Kenny Roger’s home.”
“She was the voluptuous embodiment of empathy,” the actor and activist continued. “That’s something of hers she’d want us all to take with us. To her gay and trans fans, I want you to know that she loved you. You know that without me telling you.”
She then encouraged fans of Dolly: “Dress up and celebrate her spirit. But first, watch the final episode of Grace and Frankie where she’s an Angel, the head honcho working class angel in Heaven. RIP, beautiful woman. We love you.”
Dolly Parton to be buried in her high heels
21:45 , Carsen HoladayBryan Seaver, Dolly Parton’s nephew, told TMZ that Parton will be laid to rest in the mausoleum at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Nashville, Tennessee, where her husband Carl Dean was buried after his death in March 2025.
The outlet reported that Parton will be buried in her signature high heels and a comfortable cotton dress.
Sally Field: 'I adored her with all my heart'
21:42 , Carsen HoladaySally Field, who starred in Steel Magnolias alongside Dolly Parton, wrote on Instagram: “If there are truly angels on earth, then we have just lost one. Dolly Parton.”
“There will never be another,” she wrote. “I adored her with all my heart and will always cherish our time together. Forever. Rest in peace beautiful Dolly.”
Kristin Chenoweth credits Dolly Parton as her 'ultimate inspiration'
21:27 , Carsen Holaday“Like the rest of the world, I’m immediately heartbroken,” actor and singer Kristin Chenoweth wrote on X.
“I met Dolly on several occasions and she always made me feel like one of her own. She even agreed to sing with me on one of my records.”
She continued: “My ultimate inspiration. The world has lost one of the best but I know we will never forget her because she is impossible to forget. I love you Dolly and I will ALWAYS love you.”
Like the rest of the world, I’m immediately heartbroken. I met Dolly on several occasions and she always made me feel like one of her own. She even agreed to sing with me on one of my records. My ultimate inspiration. The world has lost one of the best but I know we will never… pic.twitter.com/dqE7U4Kbjy
— Kristin Chenoweth (@KChenoweth) August 25, 2026
Kathie Lee Gifford is 'completely devastated'
21:24 , Carsen HoladayTV host Kathie Lee Gifford wrote on X, “I am completely devastated by the loss of my precious friend, Dolly.
“She encouraged me and loved me every day I needed it. That is what I remember most….I wish more people in this world would live like Dolly did. To just be kind and loving and steadfast . I will miss her for the rest of my life.”
I am completely devastated by the loss of my precious friend, Dolly. She encouraged me and loved me every day I needed it. That is what I remember most….I wish more people in this world would live like Dolly did. To just be kind and loving and steadfast . I will miss her for the…
— Kathie Lee Gifford (@KathieLGifford) August 25, 2026
Mick Jagger remembers Dolly Parton
21:20 , Carsen HoladaySharing a picture of himself backstage with the Queen of Country from 1977, Mick Jagger wrote on Instagram: “What a wonderful songwriter and singer Dolly was.
“She brought so many people together, we will all miss her so much,” he added.
What to know about Dolly Parton's empire
21:13 , Carsen HoladayDolly Parton never had any children, but often said, “God didn't mean for me to have kids so everybody's kids could be mine.”
As her death leaves behind an estate worth more than $450 million, it is unclear where the money will go — but at least some of it can be expected to go to the good causes that Parton spent her life championing.
Read more about the fortune that Parton leaves behind here:
Dolly Parton net worth: The country legend had no kids. Where is her fortune going?
Former 'The Voice' judge remembers Dolly Parton
21:06 , Carsen HoladayBlake Shelton, who was a judge on The Voice when Dolly Parton was briefly a guest advisor, has paid tribute to the late icon.
“I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today,” Shelton wrote on X. “I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen and I got to work with her on The Voice.”
He continued: “I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family. Truly a loss for the entire world. We love you Dolly.”
Parton appeared on the Season 23 finale of the NBC show to serenade Shelton with “I Will Always Love You” upon his exit from the show.
I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today. I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like… pic.twitter.com/9ycD4lSpO9
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) August 25, 2026
'9 to 5' co-star speaks out
20:56 , Carsen HoladayLily Tomlin, who starred alongside Dolly Parton in their hit 1980 movie 9 to 5, posted on Instagram Tuesday: “No words...”
GLAAD president issues statement
20:52 , Carsen HoladayGLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said in a statement: “Dolly Parton was not only the '’Queen of Country Music,’ but indeed the queen of inclusivity and philanthropy.”
“Her support for LGBTQ people spans decades, from the 1990s with her track 'Family,' where she expressed that all should be welcome regardless of religion or sexual orientation; to the powerful ballad ‘Travelin' Thru,’ which Parton penned for the film ‘TransAmerica’ and earned her an Oscar nomination; to her early support of marriage equality in 2009, well before its legalization.”
Ellie continued: “Parton's warm spirit, kindheartedness and joie de vivre deeply resonated with the LGBTQ community, cementing her as a global queer icon whose art always held space for outsiders, no matter the risk.”
“Parton's entire career was built on love and respect for all, and her unwavering allyship is a legacy that will last forever,” the statement concluded.
Cause of death not disclosed
20:45 , Carsen HoladayDolly Parton’s cause of death has not been disclosed.
The singer had dealt with several health struggles in the past year. Earlier this month, she was forced to pull out of attending the opening night of a new attraction at her theme park, Dollywood.
She had dizziness and dehydration, and her doctor advised her against traveling.
TMZ reported that Parton was hospitalized Friday morning with kidney and autoimmune issues before her death Tuesday.
Kelly Clarkson pays tribute
20:42 , Carsen HoladayKelly Clarkson wrote in a statement that Dolly Parton “had a way of making everyone feel special, and seen, and welcomed, and as if you were old friends.”
“I will miss her heart and her voice as I am sure millions will,” the singer said. “What an incredible gift and talent she was and still is with an amazing catalogue of art she has left behind for all of us.”
Jamie Lee Curtis remembers Dolly Parton as 'great example'
20:38 , Carsen HoladayActor Jamie Lee Curtis wrote on Instagram about Dolly Parton: “They say don't meet your heroes. They were wrong about her.”
“Her bravery to know that she was more than they thought she was and that she needed to break away and move on into new work and new possibilities led her to write ‘I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU,’ as her way of thanking and loving, but moving on,” she said.
“She is a great example for us all.”
Country Music Hall of Fame shares tribute
20:34 , Carsen HoladayCountry Music Hall of Fame CEO Kyle Young said in a statement: “Dolly Parton’s legacy is not celebrity, but humanity. She came from poverty to become the most important native of Tennessee.”
He continued, “She shared her fortunes for the good of all of us, and shared her soul in every note she sang”
Parton was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in September 1999.
Dolly's family plans intimate Nashville funeral
20:32 , Carsen HoladayDolly Parton’s family has said that a small, intimate funeral ceremony is being planned in Nashville in coming days according to her wishes.
The family said in a statement, “Dolly’s fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly on social media.”
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
'My heart is heavy'
20:21 , Carsen HoladayDionne Warwick said of Dolly Parton: “I will certainly miss her laugher, jokes and her being. Rest well and in total peace my friend. My heart is heavy.”
The two singers collaborated on the gospel duet “Peace Like a River,” which came out in February 2023.
I will certainly miss her laugher, jokes and her being. Rest well and in total peace my friend. My heart is heavy. pic.twitter.com/4sVARNLX0z
— Dionne Warwick (@dionnewarwick) August 25, 2026
The Muppets remember Dolly
20:13 , Carsen HoladayThe official account for the Muppets posted on Instagram: “There will never be another quite like Dolly Parton. She was the ultimate singer, songwriter, actress, performer, and philanthropist. She filled the world with light and we are so grateful for every second we got to spend with her onstage and off.”
Reba McEntire pays tribute
20:03 , Carsen HoladayCountry singer Reba McEntire wrote in a post shared on her social media accounts: “Well, I just got the news that my buddy Dolly passed onto the higher and greater side.
“Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth,” she wrote. “Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you.”
She continued, “We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang. Thank you, Lord, for Dolly. She’s gonna have a blast in heaven singing all her favorite songs with all her family and friends who have gone on before her.
“I’ll never forget the first time I met you and I’ll never forget our last conversation. I hold it with love in my heart. I will always love you, Reba.”
Dolly Parton dropped out of event last week
19:59 , Carsen HoladayEarlier this month, Dolly Parton pulled out of attending the opening of a new attraction at Dollywood, her theme park in Tennessee.
The singer became dizzy and was dehydrated, according to a report at the time, and her doctor advised her against traveling.
Henry Winkler says it's a 'sad day for America'
19:57 , Carsen HoladayActor Henry Winkler said in a post on X: “What a sad day for America what a sad day for the world what a sad day for the [Parton] family.”
“Dolly!” he wrote. “We will miss you in more ways than one can say you were a treasure on this earth.”
Winkler directed the 1986 film A Smoky Mountain Christmas, which starred Parton as country singer Lorna Davis.
What a sad day for America what a sad day for the world what a sad day for the pardon family. Dolly! We will miss you in more ways than one can say you were a treasure on this earth.
— Henry Winkler (@hwinkler4real) August 25, 2026
Petition to rename Nashville airport after Dolly Parton gets attention
19:54 , Carsen HoladayFollowing Dolly Parton’s death at 80, a Change.org petition that calls to rename the Nashville International Airport “Dolly Parton International Airport” has received renewed attention.
The petition has received more than 50,000 signatures.
Dolly Parton gave away more than 200 million books
19:43 , Carsen HoladayMore than two million books are mailed each month globally by Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
In 2023, the singer’s program gifted its 200th millionth book since its launch in 1995.
Donald Trump lowers American flag
19:35 , Carsen HoladayDonald Trump announced that flags will be lowered throughout the country for one week starting Tuesday at 6 p.m.
“Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM.”
He concluded: “Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
Trump orders flags at half mast to honor Dolly Parton after her death age 80
Keke Palmer is 'devastated'
19:35 , Carsen Holaday“I’m devastated. Truly,” Keke Palmer wrote in a tribute to Dolly Parton on Instagram.
Palmer and Parton worked together on the 2012 musical comedy Joyful Noise.
'This really hurts'
19:34 , Carsen HoladayCountry singer Kacey Musgraves wrote on X: “Dolly. This really really hurts.”
In further tweets, she added “The world feels a lot less sparkly all of a sudden.”
“So glad she’s with her Carl Dean. No one talk to me today,” she said.
Dolly. 💔 This really really hurts.
— K A C E Y (@KaceyMusgraves) August 25, 2026
Sarah Jessica Parker mourns Dolly Parton
19:31 , Carsen HoladaySarah Jessica Parker shared a tribute to Dolly Parton on Instagram, writing that she never met Dolly, “but my gosh, did I love her.”
“I don’t think any of us had to know her to love her,” the actor wrote. “One of the greatest this country ever produced. Legend. For real. Forever. And always advocating for those she knew and understood needed a champion.”
She continued: “What a loss. But aren’t we so lucky, so fortunate for the endless gifts she shared. With the world. Godspeed and RIP. You will be terribly missed.”
Dolly Parton: How country music’s most famous face remained an enigma to the end
19:26 , Ellie Muir“The Queen of Country’s death at the age of 80 has been announced by her family, sparking a global outpouring of grief. While she may have had a look that was easy to replicate, she was unquestionably one of a kind,” writes Kevin E G Perry in this tribute piece.
Read more below:
Dolly Parton: How country music’s most famous face remained an enigma to the end
Full statement from Dolly Parton's family
19:21 , Carsen Holaday“Hey everyone, my name is Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I am representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my Aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean,” Seaver announced in a video statement shared to Parton’s social media accounts.
“Sister, sis, Aunt Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next. This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality.
“As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment, but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honor, an honor mixed with absolute pride and great sadness,” he said.
“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.”
He continued: “I first went on the road with Dolly as a kid, getting a taste of the road life in the 1980s. Dolly opened doors, not just for me, but for her entire family to reach the potential we didn’t even know was possible.
“Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians, and dreamers from every walk of life and across every continent.”
“By her example, we believed that anything was possible. She never saw a door she couldn't open, and the doors she opened made and changed history. My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you.”
“She has always been on your television, your record player, your CD, and on your phone playlist, becoming an extended part of your family, whether you liked it or not,” he said. “Our family and the team she has entrusted with her legacy will work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever.
“Dolly was a farmer, just like her Daddy. He farmed the soil; she farmed songs and happiness. 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.”
He concluded: “Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly. Aunt Granny. Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you all. She will always love you.”
Dolly Parton dead at 80
19:15 , Ellie MuirThe Queen of Country has died at age 80.
Bryan Seaver, Parton’s nephew, shared a video on the singer’s website announcing that the legendary songwriter has passed away.
“This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality,” Seaver, who served as Parton’s head of security for more than two decades, said in the video.
He went on to say that Parton is “in the arms of Jesus” with her late husband Carl.
He continued: “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. Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly. Aunt Granny. Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you all. She will always love you”
Dolly Parton, beloved Queen of Country who sang ‘Jolene’ and ‘9 to 5’, dies at 80
