HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) - Country Music Icon Dolly Parton has died at 80.
Dolly’s nephew announced her passing on her official Facebook page.
The multi-award-winning singer and actress has been open about her recent health struggles.
At this time, her cause of death has not been revealed.
Several country music stars released statements after the news of Parton’s death was announced, including Reba McEntire, George Strait, and Kelsea Ballerini.
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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. We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang.
— Reba McEntire
You’ve had such a huge impact on so many people all over the world, Dolly Parton. We will all miss you. May God bless the Parton family.
— George Strait
My East Tennessee angel, thank you for every ounce of magic and butterflies, acceptance and joy, heart and music you brought to this world. We will always love you Dolly.
— Kelsea Ballerini
There will never be another. Dolly Parton was who we could all agree on. She was and is such a light.
— Maren Morris
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 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.
— Blake Shelton
Dollywood Parks and Resorts also released a statement following Parton’s passing.
With heavy hearts, the Dollywood family mourns the passing of our beloved Dreamer-in-Chief, Dolly Parton. Everyone at Dollywood shares the sorrow of countless people around the world touched by Dolly’s warmth, wisdom and generous spirit.
Dolly’s heartfelt wish was that Dollywood always remain a place of joy, hope and togetherness—a space where families and friends could honor her memory, not with silence, but with laughter, music and shared dreams.
“The greatest privilege of my life has been helping Dolly bring her dreams to life at Dollywood,” said Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President. “Dolly’s heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds. She inspired generations to dream boldly and love deeply. While we grieve her loss, we are honored and committed to carry her light forward. Her legacy will continue to shine in every melody sung, every smile shared and every dream kindled within these gates.”
Dolly’s enduring legacy extends beyond her music and generosity to her remarkable work ethic—an inspiration to people everywhere. In her spirit, Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle -- “the show must go on.” Together, we honor her by carrying forward her message of love, perseverance, and hope.
Those wishing to give in honor of Dolly may consider making a gift to the organization she was so deeply passionate about, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
— Dollywood Parks & Resorts
Grand Ole Opry releases statement:
It is with the heaviest of hearts that we say goodbye to a true country music icon, Opry member Dolly Parton. There is no doubt Dolly’s mark on the world, and on us here at the Grand Ole Opry, will be deeply felt for generations to come...we will always love you, Dolly.
— Grand Ole Opry
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