Dolly Rebecca Parton, a once-in-a-generation artist whose voice, heart, and rhinestone-bright spirit changed music and culture forever, would be remembered as far more than a country music legend. She would be remembered as kindness in heels, generosity with a guitar, and joy wrapped in big hair and even bigger love.

Born January 19, 1946, in Sevierville, Tennessee, Dolly rose from a one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains to become one of the most beloved entertainers in the world. With timeless songs like Jolene, I Will Always Love You, 9 to 5, and Coat of Many Colors, she told stories that crossed generations, genres, and borders. Her music spoke to working people, dreamers, heartbreakers, and believers alike.

Beyond her chart-topping career, Dolly would be celebrated for her unmatched compassion. Through the Imagination Library, she gifted millions of children free books, believing literacy to be one of the greatest acts of love. In moments of national tragedy and local hardship, she gave quietly and generously, never asking for praise.

Dolly’s humor, humility, and honesty made her a cultural icon. She embraced who she was without apology, reminding the world that strength and softness can coexist, that glamour can come from grit, and that kindness never goes out of style.

the world has to say goodbye to Dolly Parton, it wouldn’t truly be goodbye. Her songs would still play. Her words would still comfort. Her laughter would still echo. And her legacy would live on in every heart she touched.

As Dolly herself once said, “If you see someone without a smile, give them yours.”

That’s exactly what she did — for all of us. she peacefully passed away in her sleep at the age of 80, in her home in Tennessee, on February 8th 2026 with her loving Brothers and sisters right by her bed—leaving behind a world forever brighter because she was in it.

Her last words were:

"Goodbye to my fans I left this world wonderful and now I will be with my husband Carl Dean and I have seen the light of a clear blue morning I will greet you all up at the gate goodbye and I love you all and have a safe flight home and remember I Will Always Love you"

-Dolly Parton