Country music legend Dolly Parton died at the age of 80 on August 25, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer, according to multiple reports. Her death was confirmed by her nephew Bryan Seaver and publicist Marcel Pariseau, who said she passed away at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, surrounded by family. Parton’s legacy as one of the most beloved and influential figures in American music was widely honored by fans, fellow musicians, and politicians alike.

Health Struggles and Final Months

Parton had recently spoken publicly about health issues affecting her in 2026, including problems with her immune and digestive systems, kidney stones, dizziness, and dehydration. In an interview with PEOPLE just days before her death, she admitted that ongoing health concerns had forced her to cancel her Las Vegas residency earlier in the year. She also mentioned that she had been dealing with “some health issues” while caring for her husband, Carl Dean, who passed away in 2025.

Her family had previously announced that she had taken time off to focus on her health and that she had been receiving medical care; In a statement, her team said she “bravely faced a brief battle with cancer” before passing away. While some earlier reports had not specified the cause of death, her publicist later confirmed it was cancer-related.

Legacy of Music, Philanthropy, and Generosity

Parton’s career spanned nearly six decades and included hits such as “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You.” Her work extended beyond music into film, television, and business. She was also known for her philanthropy, particularly through the Imagination Library, which has distributed hundreds of millions of books to children; her support for medical research contributed to the development of a lifesaving vaccine, according to her team.

Taylor Swift, among many others, paid tribute to Parton, calling her an “eternally generous” figure whose legacy would be everlasting; “A world without Dolly doesn’t feel possible, real, or right,” Swift said. Her nephew Bryan Seaver described Parton as someone who “farmed songs and happiness” and who created opportunities for generations of artists and dreamers.

Private Funeral and Unofficial Tributes

Parton’s family has opted for a private and intimate funeral, according to multiple reports, but no official plans for a public memorial have been announced; Flags at the White House were lowered to half-staff in her honor, as ordered by President Donald Trump. Her death also sparked a wave of tributes from across the entertainment industry, with many highlighting her warmth, talent, and generosity.

In her final days, Parton was remembered by those who knew her best as a person who brought “joy, hope, and unconditional love” to all she touched. Her family expressed that she was now “in the arms of Jesus,” reunited with her late husband, parents, and other loved ones — her publicist said the team entrusted with her legacy would work to ensure her spirit and contributions to music and society would live on.