Beloved country music singer, songwriter, performer and actress Dolly Parton has died at age 80.
Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, delivered the news that his aunt had died in a lengthy statement on Instagram on Tuesday, Aug. 25.
“A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family,” the statement said. “Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
With little information available apart from the statement and comments made by Parton and family members in recent months, here’s what we know so far.
Was Dolly Parton sick? What was Dolly Parton’s cause of death?
Parton’s cause of death was not given in the statement from her family, which noted only that she “died peacefully today in Nashville.”
As previously reported by the Asheville Citizen Times, Parton revealed in a video shared on social media Monday, May 4, that she had been suffering from medical issues in recent years, including kidney stones and problems with her immune and digestive systems.
The video was shared after Parton canceled a planned residency in Las Vegas due to side effects caused by medications associated with said issues, including dizziness, which made Parton unable to safely perform onstage.
Dolly Parton’s North Carolina impacts
Parton, who was born and raised in North Carolina’s neighbor Tennessee, has plenty of ties to the Tar Heel State, including North Carolinian ancestry, according to Rolling Stone.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program distributes free books to children in the U.S. and several other countries. In North Carolina, the Imagination Library is partnered with Smart Start, a program that helps children prepare for success in school and life.
[Editor’s Note: Parton also reportedly donated millions to the Helene recovery effort, after the storm devastated parts of western NC and Tennessee.]
Reporting by Iris Seaton, Asheville Citizen Times / Asheville Citizen Times
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
