Dolly Parton, the iconic American country music singer, songwriter, and actress, died on Tuesday at age 80, her family announced. The singer, known for hits like “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “I Will Always Love You,” was lauded as one of the best-selling female artists of all time, with over 100 million records sold, according to CNBC.

Legacy of a Musical Pioneer

Parton’s career spanned nearly six decades, during which she won 11 Grammy awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, as she began writing songs at age six, including a song for her corncob doll, “Little Tiny Tasseltop,” according to CNBC. Her ability to connect with audiences through heartfelt lyrics and charismatic performances made her a beloved figure across generations and genres.

Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, shared the news via a video on social media, stating that Parton “lived in the light” and had long asked him to deliver the message. Seaver noted that Parton had opened doors for “dreamers from all walks of life.” Her family requested a small, private funeral, though fans were invited to honor her in social media, according to WELT.

Global Tributes and Enduring Influence

Parton’s passing sparked an outpouring of tributes from musicians across genres — Rob Halford of Judas Priest wrote on Instagram, “Ella no querrá que nadie llore. Te quiero, Dolly,” according to MariskalRock.com. Gene Simmons of Kiss called her “an alma dulce y bondadosa” and said, “Nunca habrá otra Dolly.” Mötley Crüe remembered working with her on the song “Home Sweet Home,” calling it “uno de los momentos más destacados de nuestra carrera.”

Paris Hilton shared a photo with Parton and called her an “icon” who “dejó este mundo mejor de lo que lo encontró,” according to Cadena SER. Kelly Clarkson praised Parton’s ability to make everyone feel “especial, valorado y bienvenido,” and expressed missing her “corazón y voz.”

Personal Struggles and Philanthropy

Parton was born in 1946 in a poor family in a mountain village in Tennessee, she began singing in church and performed at the Grand Ole Opry at age 13, according to the Korean news outlet 경향신문. She later became a philanthropist, often supporting causes she believed in, and created Dollywood, a theme park in her home state, her family confirmed she had been battling cancer and passed away at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the American flag would be flown at half-mast for a week in honor of Parton, according to WELT. Fans and fellow artists alike have celebrated her as a trailblazer who brought country music to global audiences and inspired millions through her music and generosity.