Dolly Parton, the iconic singer, songwriter and philanthropist, quietly battled cancer in the months leading up to her death on August 25. During her private health crisis, Parton offered to allow her medical team to test experimental drugs on her, hoping that any findings could benefit others in the future, according to her sister, Stella Parton.
"My sister was one of the most generous, thoughtful and kind people I’ve ever known," Stella Parton wrote on Facebook. "What the world saw is exactly who she was, so much so, she told me recently that if there was no hope for her, she would still allow her medical team to try experimental drugs in the hope of helping others in the future."
Stella Parton stated that her sister's final wishes reflected the kindness she hoped fans would continue to show. "My sister was always thinking of others and if you want to honor her legacy, show more kindness, lift others up and give more of your time and resources as she continued to do to the very end," she added.
Parton's family confirmed her death to Fox News Digital, stating it followed a brief cancer battle. The family has announced that a small, private service will be held for immediate loved ones, honoring Parton's wish to be remembered by her closest family members.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, a literacy program founded by the singer to provide free books to children. The family also shared that Parton wished to be buried in a bed of soft cotton, seeking comfort after a lifetime of elaborate stage wear. "Dolly was a farmer, just like her daddy; he farmed the soil, she farmed songs and happiness," her nephew said in a video announcing her passing. "Dolly called me and said she wants to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton because, after a life of wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest."