NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Fans and celebrities alike are sending their condolences after the family of Dolly Parton took to social media to announce the superstar’s death on Tuesday, Aug. 25.
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The “I will Always Love You” singer was 80 years old. Her family did not provide a cause of death, but it was previously disclosed that she was facing health issues. Earlier this month, the Tennessee icon skipped out on attending the unveiling of a new ride at her theme park, telling fans that her doctor advised her not to travel.
According to a statement from her team, Parton’s family plans to hold a “small, private service” to celebrate her life.
Multiple prominent figures, including lawmakers and musical artists, took to social media to express what Dolly meant to them.
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. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6 p.m. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you. President DONALD J. TRUMP.
President Donald Trump
It is with the heaviest of hearts that we say goodbye to a true country music icon, Opry member Dolly Parton. There is no doubt Dolly’s mark on the world, and on us here at the Grand Ole Opry, will be deeply felt for generations to come. She taught us to always lead with kindness, generosity, and compassion. May her legacy live on through her songs, the lives she touched, and the countless artists she inspired. There will never, ever be another one like her. We will always love you, Dolly.
Grand Ole Opry
Rare is the one who climbs to the pinnacle of fame, then scoffs at its allure, only to retain the genuine humility that defines them. Dolly Parton was one of a kind, who loved people, her work, her family, and her Lord. Tennessee has forever been changed – enhanced – by her, and will never be quite the same without Dolly.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee
There are no words to adequately express the sorrow our family and indeed, all Tennesseans, feel in the loss of Dolly Parton. An iconic leader who loved our great state and nation. Her passing leaves a void that no one can ever fill. Dolly, we will always love you.
Sen. Marsha Blackburn
Dolly spent her whole life showing us what it means to lead with love. Lauren and I are so grateful to have known her. She lifted everyone with her music, her generosity, and her joy. Sending our sincere condolences to her family and everyone she touched.
Jeff Bezos
My East Tennessee angel, thank you for every ounce of magic and butterflies, acceptance and joy, heart and music you brought to this world. We will always love you Dolly.”
Kelsea Ballerini
Dolly! This really, really hurts. The world feels a lot less sparkly all of a sudden. So glad she’s with her Carl Dean.
Kacey Musgraves
I’m devastated. Truly.
Keke Palmer
It is indeed rare for the world, collectively, to express sorrow for someone’s passing. I knew her to be the angel that they think she was, and I’ll miss her. Dolly, I’ll always love you.
Trace Adkins
Rest in peace Dolly Parton, I wish I had the honor of meeting you. You were everyone’s favorite artist. Thank you for giving us some of the greatest music we’ll ever know.
Shaboozey
I can say with absolute certainty that we are all feeling the same heart brokenness today. I only got to spend any real time with Dolly when Gwen and I got to work with her on The Voice. I want everyone to know that she was the EXACT person that you think she is. It was like being with the funnest, most loving, most caring and closest member of your family. Truly a loss for the entire world. We love you Dolly.
Blake Shelton
There will never be another. Dolly Parton was who we could all agree on. She was and is such a light.
Maren Morris
Dolly Parton was an American icon who brought people together and spread joy. In Kentucky, she shared her love of reading through her Imagination Library, sparking brighter futures for thousands of children across our commonwealth. There aren’t enough words to sum up the impact and legacy Dolly leaves behind, but it is clear that it will continue for generations to come. Britainy and I are praying for Dolly’s family and all those hurting from this enormous loss.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
Dolly Parton was one of a kind—a great songwriter and performer who told the stories of everyday Americans with honesty, humility, and heart. She rose high from her East Tennessee roots and never forgot where she came from. And she always believed in giving back, especially in her efforts to promote literacy. Hillary and I were big fans and first saw her in 1974, and will always be grateful for the music and the memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, her legion of fans, and everyone who loved her.
Bill Clinton
America has lost a true national treasure. Dolly Parton’s unmistakable voice, joyful spirit, and remarkable generosity touched generations of Americans and many others around the world. From the mountains of Tennessee to stages across the globe, she never forgot where she came from, and she used her extraordinary success to lift up countless others. Our prayers are with her family and all who loved her.
Speaker Mike Johnson
One of my fondest memories with Dolly Parton: Having a hoot and a holler while wearing Bob Mackie gowns on her show Dolly.
This girl from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee dreamed a life and then lived a life bigger than she could have ever imagined, giving so generously to others in ways we saw and ways we didn’t.
No one like her. She brought the light, and we are all better because she was here. God bless you, Dolly—you earned your wings.
Oprah
Dolly Parton was a true American icon. First introduced to the world as a “little girl from up in East Tennessee,” she became a global superstar. Her career accolades included 11 Grammy awards, an Emmy, an honorary Oscar, and — my favorite — more than 300 million books sent to millions of children around the world through her Imagination Library. All at once she was kind, modest, and funny. With her music, her philanthropy, and her style, Dolly was one of one.
Doug and I send our prayers to her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her magic. We will always love you, Dolly.
Kamala Harris
Dolly Parton, an American Original and an absolute country music hero, has sadly passed away. Rest in peace. The whole world will miss you.
John Rich
Well, I just got the news that my buddy Dolly passed onto the higher and greater side. Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you.
We will remember and cherish every memory and every note you ever played and sang. Thank you, Lord, for Dolly. She’s gonna have a blast in heaven singing all her favorite songs with all her family and friends who have gone on before her. I’ll never forget the first time I met you and I’ll never forget our last conversation. I hold it with love in my heart. I will always love you.Reba
Dolly Parton’s legacy is not celebrity, but humanity. She came from poverty to become the most important native of Tennessee. She shared her fortunes for the good of all of us, and shared her soul in every note she sang.
Kyle Young, CEO of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Dolly Parton’s music helped light up the world. She was a brilliant songwriter, cultural icon, and dedicated philanthropist who helped instill a love of reading and learning in millions of children around the world. May she rest in peace.
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple
You’ve had such a huge impact on so many people all over the world, Dolly Parton. We will all miss you. May God bless the Parton family.
George Strait
I am saddened to hear of the passing of a Tennessee, American, and international icon, Dolly Parton. She was a Tennessee original whose remarkable life and legacy touched people across our great state and around the world and for many of her fans, she was their favorite Tennessean. She was an incredible ambassador for our state. Dolly never forgot her Tennessee roots, and throughout her life, she gave back generously to the people and communities she loved. Her contributions to our state, her music, and her service to others will continue to have an impact for generations to come. Please join me, Dawn, and our entire office in keeping Dolly’s family and loved ones in your prayers.
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett
The lyrics from ‘9 to 5’ were some of the earliest lyrics I remember. As I had kids of my own, we built an incredible collection of 120 books from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The only book that was repeated was The Little Engine That Could, which is a great starting point for any kid learning to read. For each of the girls, there was a tearful moment upon receiving what we knew would be the last book from Dolly, letting each of them know they were ready for kindergarten.
We had the incredible opportunity to take the girls a few times to Dollywood, and for a child who never got to experience Opryland, our older daughter’s reflection is that somehow it feels like home. Dolly did a remarkable fashion exhibition at Lipscomb a few years ago, featuring student work. A remarkable musical featuring her story originated at Belmont. She’s bringing us Songteller as a brand-new hospitality experience.
While Nashville wasn’t her original home, she helped change it forever with an incredible, unprecedented thing: filling a little library in every childcare center in the city with books from her Imagination Library. She’s given Nashville—and the world—story and song and done so in a way that she remained universally beloved in challenging times.
I hope we can all find some humility and pride in the coat of many colors Dolly taught us about.
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell
Dolly Parton leaves behind a legacy that will shape lives for generations to come. Through her talent, generosity and unwavering belief in others, she inspired people around the world to dream bigger and live with joy. Dolly’s partnership with Belmont is a gift to our university. We were honored to host the world premiere of her original musical at the Fisher Center and to witness the impact of the Dolly U program on our students. As we give thanks for her extraordinary life, we celebrate the light she brought and rejoice in the hope that sustained her, trusting that she now sees the fullness of that clear blue morning.
Belmont University
We at the City of Brentwood are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dolly Parton – a Country Music Icon, dedicated philanthropist, and longtime Brentwood resident. We’re proud she chose to live in our community for many years, and loved stories of her doing her own shopping “incognito” — people swear you would never recognize her off-stage. As someone who inspired millions around the world with her music and her giving heart, she was a blessing to our community. For example, Ms. Dolly’s Imagination Library has provided more than 270 million books to children around the world. Her legacy extends far beyond the stage. She leaves an enduring example of compassion, service, and generosity that will continue to inspire people for years to come. She will be deeply missed by the Brentwood community and by admirers around the world.
Brentwood Mayor Nelson Andrews
As four-time subscribers to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and lifelong fans of her music, our family knows that Dolly Parton loved a good story. I hope that you’ll pick up a book and celebrate the magic of storytelling in her honor today.
Second Lady Usha Vance
On behalf of the Tennessee Titans, we join our community across the state in mourning a true national and Tennessee treasure. Dolly’s extraordinary talent reached every corner of the world, and yet she never lost touch with the roots that shaped her. Her boundless generosity touched millions of lives, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. We extend our deepest condolences to her family; she will be dearly missed.
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Amy Adams Strunk, owner of the Tennessee Titans
The magnificent star Dolly Parton has died and it is so sad. She was such a wonderful woman. I first met her in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry where she had been playing with the country star Porter Wagoner and was about to start her solo career. She was so bubbly and full of life it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed. Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivaled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly. She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of her music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world. There was no greater honour for me than to have her sing my song Let It Be and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honoured that she did it. I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents.
Thanks Dolly for the beautiful music you gave me and the whole world. We will always love you, god bless and rest in peace. You were the best.
Paul McCartney
Dolly Parton had a way of making everyone feel special, and seen, and welcomed, and as if you were old friends. I will miss her heart and her voice as I am sure millions will. What an incredible gift and talent she was and still is with an amazing catalogue of art she has left behind for all of us.
Kelly Clarkson
Oh Dolly, the only thing i could say after we first met was “she really is an angel walking the earth” and “we look like we could be sisters!” I will cherish our laughter and conversations and I will keep your wisdom, your playful outlook on life, and perfect sense of humor in my pocket for the rainy days. There will never be another you and how lucky are we all to have experienced your singular magic as well as your once in a lifetime voice, songs, and heart. Your light will be something the world will search forever to find again. I will always love you.
Sabrina Carpenter
Rest peacefully Dolly, thank you for the joy and the music and the example you set for us all.
Noah Kahan
There is a hole in the universe. There was and will never be anyone like Dolly. I did not know her well but I loved her like family… we all did. She was an incredible story teller musically and in real life. But she was also a loving and compassionate human being, led by goodness in all she did. I will miss knowing she is on the planet but she will never be far away. RIP Dolly, we love you.
Sheryl Crow
Few stars could light up a screen, tell a story through a song, or find their way into our hearts quite like Dolly Parton. Dolly brought something entirely her own to everything she did. She was radiant on screen and in song; she could put a lifetime of feeling into just a few words. And through it all, there was a warmth to Dolly that made her feel wonderfully close to us.
A two-time Oscar nominee, Dolly was also honored by the Academy last year with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, which recognized the extraordinary compassion and generosity she shared so freely with others. We will always love you, Dolly.
The Academy
You were the barometer. The North Star. Bold and brilliant. Talented and tenacious. You taught so many lessons on how to be uniquely oneself. I am grateful for your art, your heart, your generosity, your humor, your entrepreneurship. I’m honored that I had the privilege to work with you. I will treasure that forever. Thank you for your profound impact on the world. You are an angel who has made this world a happier place because of your joyful art. You are truly one of one. Rest peacefully.
Beyoncé
I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms.
In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her. In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, “Honey, this trash sells records!”
Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will.
Billy Ray Cyrus
She’s not gone. I know exactly where she is. She was the epitome of faith, grace, talent, beauty and humor. She had a humble heart for Jesus and made everyone around her feel special. She was probably the one person on planet Earth that everyone loved and could agree on. She was a one of one and no one will ever come close. It’s alright to be sad that this world lost a legend, but heaven gained an angel. Well done, good and faithful Dolly. Welcome home.
Carrie Underwood
I never imagined this day would come. Getting to know Dolly was life changing, but not just for me. For everyone. She seemed immortal. And in the spirit of what we sang together on this song, I believe she is. It won’t be the same down here without you Dolly. But what a legacy of goodness and art you leave for all of us. Goodbye hero. We will always love you.
Brad Paisley
She was an icon and showed us all what was possible, not only as a human but as an entertainer. She was the blueprint, head and shoulders above anyone that came before her and all those of us that have come after. Everything she did, she did it with kindness, grace and that famous wit and smile. It’s been hard to not be in tears all day. There will never be another Dolly Parton.
Tim McGraw
Dolly was my friend. Just a couple weeks ago she called me. We always talked like two old friends just catching up. Like her, I feel called to be in this business and she reminded me that if you’re called to it, He will get you through it. Dolly was already an angel walking amongst us. Now she’s just got a set of wings.
Lainey Wilson
Dolly,
From our hearts to the throne of glory, we release one of our greatest angels….our butterfly, Dolly.
I’ve been blessed to know many wonderful folks throughout my career in country music; but, none quite like you, Dolly. You had a way of making everyone around you feel most important. Your kindness was genuine, your faith strong, your humor lit up a room, and that beautiful heart of yours was even bigger than the remarkable voice the world fell in love with.
I’ll always be grateful for the memories, the conversations, the laughs, and the goodness you showed me through the years—especially during the chapters of my life when your encouragement meant more than you probably ever knew.
You gave country music some of its sweetest memories and most iconic songs; but, you gave the world something greater…yourself. And, you gave it all! Now, it’s your turn to dance with Carl—Thank you for showing all of us how to carry success with grace and how to use the gifts God gave us to bless others. Your mission to make people happy and lift them up while glorifying God, is complete. You have planted so many trees under whose shade you will never sit… you have made this world a better place. There will never be another you, Dolly.
Rest peaceful, my sweet friend, until we meet again…and, next time, I’ll be sneaking up on you!
I will always love you… forever and ever, Amen
Randy Travis
I’ve said often in my life, “What will the world be without Dolly?” From the time I was a little girl, I wanted to be just like her. At 15 years old, my family uprooted their lives so I could start chasing my dreams, working in the country show at Dollywood. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of not only working with Dolly, but getting to know her. She was exactly who we all hoped she would be — kind, funny, gracious, and one of a kind. Heaven got a whole lot sassier, funnier, and brighter today. I will do my part as a woman in country music to continue carrying the light she shined so brightly for all of us. I love you, Dolly Parton. Forever your little Dollywood girl.
Carly Pearce
I count my lucky stars that I called Dolly my friend. When I was playing June Carter Cash in Walk the Line, she took me to dinner and told me stories of how June Carter charmed everyone in country music. Dolly gave me the courage to put my whole spirit into that performance and made me see how lucky I was to be a storyteller. Throughout my entire career, she sent me little notes of encouragement and support, telling me to be the light in people’s lives and listen to my angels. Always signed: “I will always love you.”
Dolly, I miss you already. Your talent, your wisdom and your beautiful spirit lit up our lives. Go soar with your angels…. We will always love you.
Reese Witherspoon
It’s hard for me to imagine the world without Dolly. Dolly’s heart was as big as her talent. She was not only a great singer/song writer/actress/TV star, Dolly also lived her art. She used her art, her fame and her money to help so many people. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve thought to myself, “What would Dolly do?” She was a great role model for all of us. I hope she is in a place with Carl, her Mom and Dad and all her loved ones who’ve passed. She will be so missed. Rest in Peace Dolly.
Cyndi Lauper
Country Music icon, humanitarian, philanthropist and unbelievable human being has died at the age of 80. The world is saddened and mourns the passing of this wonderful Woman. Rest in peace my friend.
News 2 Anchor Bob Mueller
There was only one Dolly and I feel lucky to have known her. We’ll miss you, Dolly. Tennessee won’t be the same without her!
Peyton Manning
Heartbroken to hear about Queen Dolly Parton’s passing. She was a true icon and such an inspiration to me. Her talent, heart and kindness touched so many lives, and she truly left this world better than she found it. Sending all my love to her family, friends and everyone who loved her. Rest in peace, Dolly.
Paris Hilton
I am devastated. I just learned that Dolly has moved on. I know that millions are mourning and I want to say this – more than anyone I have ever known, Dolly will always be with us because she was so present, so powerful, so generous and playful that she is woven into all our lives and hearts forever. We have our memories of her, her songs, Dollywood, “9to5,” the millions of books she got into the hands of children, all the iconic images that bring her to us. And they are
all blessings. Let’s be grateful for all that she has left us to ease our sadness now. I never knew anyone like her. She was simultaneously a naughty, playful southern gal from the hollows of
Tennessee and a deep, soulful thinker who could see through people right down to their true selves. She was many things…lyricist, songstress, player of many instruments, writer, prankster, visionary, loyal friend, who’d never go to bed before she and her friends had laughed so hard
they’d have to cross their legs.She had a survivor’s instinct and seemed to always know just what to do, just what to say, to make things right…and then she’s stick her butt out the car window and moon Kenny Roger’s home. She was the voluptuous embodiment of empathy. That’s something of hers she’d want us all to take with us.
To her gay and trans fans, I want you to know that she loved you. You know that without me telling you. She loved all her fans and they are legion. And you know she doesn’t want y’all to mourn now. Dress up and celebrate her spirit. But first, watch the final episode of Grace and Frankie where she’s an Angel, the head honcho working class angel in Heaven. RIP, beautiful woman. We love you.
Jane Fonda
What a wonderful songwriter and singer Dolly was. She brought so many people together, we will all miss her so much.
Mick Jagger
Like the rest of the world, I’m immediately heartbroken. I met Dolly on several occasions and she always made me feel like one of her own. She even agreed to sing with me on one of my records. My ultimate inspiration. The world has lost one of the best but I know we will never forget her because she is impossible to forget. I love you Dolly and I will ALWAYS love you.
Kristin Chenoweth
They say don’t meet your heroes. They were wrong about her. Her bravery to know that she was more than they thought she was and that she needed to break away and move on into new work and new possibilities led her to write I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU, as her way of thanking and loving, but moving on. She is a great example for us all.
Jamie Lee Curtis
Fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly on social media by tagging @DollyParton or by leaving a message at www.dollyparton.com. In lieu of flowers, Parton’s family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
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