Dolly Parton: key obituary facts
Is Dolly Parton dead? Yes. Dolly Parton died on August 25, 2026, at age 80.
Cause of death: Dolly Parton's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was Dolly Parton known for?
She was an American singer, songwriter and actress (1946–2026).
More about Dolly Parton
Born: 19 January 1946.
Place of birth: Pittman Center.
Place of death: Nashville.
Gender: female.
Occupation: guitarist, country singer, actor, singer-songwriter, banjoist, autobiographer, businessperson, television actor.
Nationality: United States.
Notable work: All I Can Do, I Will Always Love You, Jolene.
Awards: National Medal of Arts, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, American Music Award for Favorite Country Album, Country Music Association Award for Entertainer of the Year, Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, Grammy Award for Best Country Song, Favorite Country Single, Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
Also known as: Dolly Parton Dean.
Occupations: Singer, songwriter, musician, actress, philanthropist, businesswoman.
Years active: 1956–2026.
Genres: Country, country pop, bluegrass, gospel, rock.
Instruments: Vocals, guitar.
Dolly Parton, the American singer and actress known for “Jolene” and 9 to 5, died on August 25, 2026, aged 80.
Born Dolly Rebecca Parton in Pittman Center, Tennessee, she built a six-decade career that began with her 1967 debut album, Hello, I’m Dolly, after first gaining notice as a songwriter for other performers. Parton was one of country music’s most decorated figures, earning multiple Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, and other major honors, and she was widely associated with songs including “I Will Always Love You.” She was also known as a businesswoman and philanthropist, and her work ranged across songwriting, performing and acting.