Dolly Parton shared update on her health days before her death at age 80

August 26, 2026 - 02:36

The world lost a true icon on Aug. 25, when Dolly Parton passed away at the age of 80, surrounded by her closest family at her home in Nashville. Her family released a brief statement confirming the news, asking for privacy as they grieve. Just days before her death, Parton had shared a rare and candid health update with fans, saying she was feeling "slower than usual" but remained grateful for every sunrise. She had been battling a long-term illness privately, though she insisted she was not ready to stop performing.

Parton's career spanned more than six decades, with hits like "Jolene" and "9 to 5" cementing her as a country music pioneer. She was also known for her philanthropy, including the Imagination Library, which has mailed over 200 million free books to children. In her final public message, she wrote that she hoped her music would keep bringing people together long after she was gone. Fans have already begun leaving flowers and handwritten notes outside Dollywood, the theme park she founded in Tennessee. Her family says a private funeral will be held, with a public memorial planned for later this fall.