Country music legend Dolly Parton died at the age of 80 after a private battle with cancer, her representatives confirmed, revealing that the beloved singer had been facing serious health challenges before her passing.

In a statement, Parton’s team remembered her as an artist whose influence went far beyond music — someone who dedicated her life to spreading kindness, supporting education and helping people around the world.

“Dolly spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,” her representatives said, highlighting her charitable work, including her Imagination Library program, which has provided millions of free books to children.

Parton passed away on August 25 at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, surrounded by loved ones, after what her family described as a brief battle with cancer.

Her nephew and longtime head of security, Bryan Seaver, shared the heartbreaking news with fans, saying announcing her death was one of the most difficult moments of his life.

“She asked me years ago to make this announcement one day,” Seaver said, explaining that although the moment brought deep sadness, the family also felt pride in the extraordinary life she lived.

Before her death, Parton had already been dealing with health issues. She had recently canceled an appearance at Dollywood after doctors advised her not to travel due to ongoing medical concerns.

In her final interviews, Parton reflected on her health struggles and admitted that she had spent years putting others first, especially while caring for her late husband, Carl Thomas Dean, who died in 2025.

Despite her challenges, Parton remained active and continued sharing her passion for music. In what became one of her final public appearances, she appeared virtually at the ACM Honors on August 19, where she accepted the ACM Poet’s Award and spoke about how important songwriting had always been throughout her life.

Fans around the world are now mourning the loss of one of the most recognizable voices in country music. Beyond her legendary songs, Dolly Parton leaves behind a legacy built on generosity, resilience and a lifelong commitment to helping others.

From a small-town girl in Tennessee to a global superstar, Dolly Parton’s story touched generations — and her impact will continue long after her final note.