Dolly Parton, the iconic singer-songwriter known for timeless hits such as “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You,” has died at the age of 80. Her team confirmed that the Tennessee-born star passed away on Tuesday after a brief battle with cancer. Beyond her musical achievements, Parton was a dedicated philanthropist who contributed millions to children’s literacy initiatives and helped fund one of the earliest Covid-19 vaccines.
Miley Cyrus led the tributes to her godmother, whom she affectionately called “Aunt Dolly,” describing her as an “angel by my side.” Cyrus, who also hails from Tennessee, shared on Instagram that she intends to honor Parton’s memory by continuing to write music and remaining strong. She noted that while their most sacred moments were kept private, the impact of their relationship remains profound.
Reflections from Billy Ray Cyrus
- Personal connection: Described Parton as a constant presence in his life and home, noting that he grew up admiring her.
- Memorable interactions: Recounted a specific instance where he apologized for tabloid rumors of an affair, to which Parton simply winked and remarked that the gossip helped sell records.
Taylor Swift praised Parton for her “true grace and true grit,” emphasizing the lasting legacy of her generosity and the millions of books she provided to children globally. Swift credited Parton for paving the way for younger artists, stating that a world without her feels impossible. Similarly, Sir Paul McCartney recalled meeting Parton in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry early in her career, remembering her as a bubbly, vibrant individual whose songwriting and philanthropy were unmatched.
Sir Elton John expressed his devastation at the loss, calling Parton a “giant of an artist” who possessed a uniquely kind heart. The two artists famously performed together at the 2005 Country Music Association Awards. Beyoncé also paid homage, labeling Parton her “North Star” and “barometer.” She expressed gratitude for the legend’s humor, entrepreneurship, and artistic influence, noting that her 2024 albumCowboy Carterfeatured a rendition of “Jolene” as a tribute to her impact.
Katy Perry and Sabrina Carpenter also shared their respects. Perry, who performed with Parton on several occasions, described her as a “pure, sweet, sassy cup of joy” who defied stereotypes for decades by proving that intelligence and talent could coexist with a bold persona. Carpenter, who collaborated with Parton in 2025 on a country-inspired version of her hit “Please Please Please,” remarked that meeting the icon felt like encountering an “angel walking the earth.” The report also notes that cyrus, also born in Tennessee, added: “Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour and between our hearts. The report also notes that write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong, what I know is Dolly would want me to feel it. The report also notes that on our TVs, right in our living rooms”, her father and Parton’s close friend Billy Ray Cyrus remembered the music icon as being “part of our lives. The report also notes that she just looked at me, winked and said: ‘Honey, this trash sells records, in true Dolly fashion. The report also notes that her legacy will be an everlasting one, but because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better.
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