Legendary country singer Dolly Parton sadly passed away on 25 August 2026 at the age of 80, a heartbreaking announcement her nephew, Bryan Seaver, shared on social media. His online statement also revealed the singer’s final wish following her passing.
The late Tennessee-born singer and actress was known for hits such as I Will Always Love You, Jolene, and 9 to 5, as well as her philanthropic work, particularly the Imagination Library, which provides free books to children.
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Dolly Parton reunites with loved ones
Bryan, the son of Cassie Parton, Dolly’s sister, shared that the video announcement was a years-long request from his aunt, who had suffered poor health in previous years. Ultimately, she succumbed to a brief battle with cancer.
“Dolly has lived in the light, and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl [Dolly’s husband], her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens.”
Before speaking about her final wish, Dolly’s nephew noted that like her father, Dolly was a farmer.
“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.”
Take a look at the video statement below.
View this post on Instagram
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Giving Dolly Parton her flowers
In his statement, Bryan also praised Dolly for opening doors for other singers, songwriters, musicians, and dreamers in the global entertainment industry, adding:
“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.”
With Dolly’s influence and success, many of her industry colleagues, young and old, regard the singer and actress as a beacon. She paved the way for many aspiring artists to pursue their dreams and make their mark in Hollywood.
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