Dolly Parton was remembered as a "global icon and humanitarian" in a heartfelt obituary shared by Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum following her death at the age of 80. The country music legend died peacefully on Aug. 25 in Nashville, Tennessee.
"Dolly Parton [was] known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author," the obituary stated, describing her life as "rhinestone" that "shone bright enough for the world to see." The statement emphasized that Parton "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 obituary praised the "9 to 5" singer for inspiring "multiple generations of artists and fans" with her music and for an "unwavering commitment" to improving the world. This sentiment was previously shared by a representative for Parton.
Earlier on Friday, loved ones of Parton gathered at her Nashville burial site. Photos showed some of her closest relatives, including nephew and head of security Bryan Seaver, appearing somber as they arrived at the cemetery. A small and private service for immediate family was planned at the musician's request. Parton will be laid to rest beside her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 at the age of 82.
Seaver had announced the news of Parton's passing in a video post, stating, "I am representing the Parton and Owens family today, announcing the passing of my Aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean. Sister, sis, Aunt Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next." He noted that this announcement was something Parton had requested of him years prior.
Parton's representatives confirmed that she died following a "brief battle" with cancer. "After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life [Tuesday] at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones," the statement read. "Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand."