Parton died peacefully in Nashville on August 25, according to her family. A cause of death was not disclosed.
The announcement was made on her official Instagram account in a video shared by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, on behalf of the Parton family.
In an official obituary, the family described Parton as an inspiration whose legacy extended beyond her music to her wit, warmth, kindness and philanthropic work.
“Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience,” the family said, noting that her seven-decade career inspired generations of musicians and fans around the world.
Parton, who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most recognisable figures in country music, also achieved major success in pop music, film and television. Her songwriting produced numerous enduring hits, while her larger-than-life personality made her a beloved cultural figure.
Concerns about her health had increased in recent months.
In mid-August, Parton said she would be unable to attend an appearance at Dollywood after experiencing dehydration and dizziness. She said her Nashville doctor had advised her not to travel.
Her health challenges had previously forced her to cancel a planned six-show December 2025 residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
At the time, Parton said she had been dealing with health issues and needed to undergo several medical procedures. She explained that she wanted to recover fully rather than present fans with a show that did not meet her standards.
Parton also withdrew from the Motion Picture Academy’s Governors Awards, where she had been expected to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. Although she was initially expected to accept the honour remotely, she later decided not to participate.
Despite the health setbacks, Parton remained involved in creative projects.
She participated in the development of Dolly: An Original Musical, an autobiographical production about her life. The musical had its pre-Broadway engagement at the Fisher Center on the campus of Belmont University in Nashville in July and August, with expectations that it could move to New York in 2026.
She was also involved in Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony, a travelling concert featuring other singers performing her songs alongside local symphony orchestras, with Parton appearing on a large screen.
Parton attended the world premiere of the symphonic production in Nashville in March.
With a career spanning seven decades, Parton leaves behind a vast musical catalogue, a celebrated film career and a reputation for philanthropy that reached millions of people.
Her family said her music and charitable work would continue to inspire generations to come.
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