Country music queen and songwriter Dolly Parton has died peacefully at the age of 80 in Nashville, Tennessee.
Her passing was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in a video on August 25.
Seaver, who served as Parton’s head of security for more than two decades after taking over the role from his father, Larry, said the announcement was something his aunt had asked him to make years ago.
“Hi everyone, my name is Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton and I am representing the Parton and Owen’s family today, announcing the passing of my aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, sister, sis, aunt granny to one generation and Gigi to the next. This video announcement is something Dolly asked me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality.” Seaver said.
In addition, he said that he had imagined the weight of the moment but had not truly understood it until he was faced with it.
“I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us not with Dolly.” He noted.
Bryan described Parton as having “lived in the light” and said he believed she was now in the arms of Jesus, reunited with her late husband, Carl Dean, her parents and others who had gone before her.
Dolly Parton’s Last Wishes
As part of her last wishes, Bryan revealed that Dolly wanted to be laid to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton.
“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 of wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest.” Bryan said.
Additionally, the family has requested that the funeral service remain a private affair, with only immediate family members in attendance.
Fans and friends around the world, however, have been encouraged to honor Parton’s memory on social media or by leaving messages on her official website, according to the post.
“At Dolly’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family. Dolly’s fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly on social media by tagging Dolly Parton or by leaving a message at www.dollyparton.com” The statement read.
Read More: Natalie Githinji’s Fight Against Endometriosis Gets KSh200,000 Boost Ahead of KICC Campaign
Trump Orders Flags to Be Lowered in Her Honour
Following news of Parton’s death, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered American flags to be flown at half-mast across the United States in her honour.
In a post on social media, Trump described Parton as one of the greatest country singers ever and said her death was a loss for millions of people.
“Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. 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. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.” President Trump said.
Early Life
Dolly was born in Tennessee in 1946. She rose from a poor rural upbringing to become a global entertainment icon, earning widespread acclaim for songs including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You.”
Her music career spanned more than six decades, with more than 100 million records sold worldwide.
She was also an accomplished actress, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Beyond her music, Dolly Parton was particularly celebrated for establishing the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a literacy program that has distributed hundreds of millions of books to children.
Accolades
Parton accumulated numerous honors during her career, including 11 Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and inductions into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
She also became one of the few artists to maintain a presence on the country music charts across multiple decades.
Her death comes after months of health challenges that forced her to cancel her planned Las Vegas residency and withdraw from several public appearances.
Just days before her death, she had accepted the ACM Honors Poet’s Award virtually while continuing to work on several creative and business projects.
Parton leaves behind a vast musical catalogue and a legacy that extends well beyond country music, having influenced generations of artists while becoming one of the world’s most recognizable entertainers.
