Dolly Parton dies at 80 as family pays tribute to country music icon

Country music icon Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her family has confirmed.

The news was announced on Tuesday by her nephew, Brian Seaver, in a video posted to Parton’s official Instagram account. Seaver said the video was something Parton had asked him to record years ago, knowing that one day he would have to deliver the heartbreaking news.

“My name is Brian 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,” he said.

Seaver described the moment as one filled with both grief and pride.

“This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality,” he said.

He said the family was devastated by the loss but grateful for the life Parton lived and the impact she had on millions of people.

“We are heartbroken by this loss, but we are also filled with gratitude for the life Dolly lived and the love she shared with so many people,” Seaver said.

Parton, whose career spanned almost six decades, became one of the most recognisable figures in country music through songs including “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.” She also built a successful career as an actress, producer and philanthropist.

For her family, however, she was more than a global superstar.

“While she has always been part of your lives through your televisions, your radios, and your playlists, she has always been part of our family too,” Seaver said.

He remembered Parton as someone who led by example and encouraged those around her to believe that anything was possible.

“She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and every door she opened helped change history,” he said.

Seaver said Parton’s life was grounded in faith, family, hard work, her Tennessee roots and her music.

“She was rooted in faith, family, hard work, the soil of her home, and her songs,” he said.

Parton also leaves behind a significant philanthropic legacy, particularly through the Dollywood Foundation and its Imagination Library literacy programme, which has distributed hundreds of millions of books to children.

Seaver ended his tribute by saying the family believed Parton was finally at peace.

“After a life spent giving so much to others, she is finally at peace and resting comfortably,” he said.

“God bless Dolly, and may God bless each of you.”

Parton died peacefully in Nashville on Tuesday, according to reports citing her family. A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.