Dolly Parton, queen of country music, dies at 80: The voice behind 'I Will Always Love You' and over 3,000 songs falls silent
"Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus," said her nephew Bryan Seaver in a video posted on social media. He noted that the singer "opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life."
Dolly Parton performs during the 37th annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony
Country music legend Dolly Parton died Tuesday at the age of 80, her family confirmed. The artist, who rose from poverty in Tennessee to become a global icon, leaves behind a legacy spanning more than six decades, marked by timeless songs and an influence that transcended genres and borders.
"Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus," said her nephew Bryan Seaver in a video posted on social media. He noted that the singer "opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life." "By her example, we believed that anything was possible. She never saw a door she couldn't open, and the doors she opened made and changed history," he added.
The family did not disclose the cause of death. Parton had spoken in recent months about health issues. In May, she canceled a series of concerts in Las Vegas due to medical concerns. In videos posted on social media, she explained that treatment for an unspecified illness was going well, but that she still didn't feel ready to take the stage. Her husband, Carl Dean, passed away last year.
Donald Trump’s message: “Rest in peace, Dolly! The world loves you”
Donald Trump reacted on social media to Parton’s death.
“Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you,” the president wrote on his Truth Social account.
In honor of Parton, Trump also ordered that flags be flown at half-staff for one week.
A career spanning more than 3,000 songs
With talent, charisma and an unmistakable image, Dolly Parton not only dominated the charts: she became a symbol of resilience and generosity whose voice will continue to resonate long after her passing.
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