Dolly Parton’s cause of death has been revealed after the legendary country music singer died at the age of 80. Representatives for the music icon confirmed to People that Parton died following a brief battle with cancer. She passed away on August 25 at the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by members of her family and loved ones.
A statement shared by her representatives remembered Parton for the happiness and hope she brought to millions of people around the world. Her team also highlighted her lifelong charity work, including her Imagination Library, which has helped provide books to children, as well as her support for medical research and other causes. The statement said Parton continued to show courage while facing cancer before her death.
The news of Parton’s passing was first announced by her nephew Bryan Seaver in an emotional Instagram video. Seaver, who had worked as Parton’s head of security for more than two decades, said she had asked him years earlier to make the announcement when the time came. He described the moment as one filled with pride and sadness while remembering Parton as a beloved aunt and family member.
Seaver also shared a personal detail about Parton’s final wishes. He said she had asked to be laid to rest “in a beautiful bed of plush cotton.” He explained that after spending her life wearing heavy rhinestones, she deserved to be comfortable.
Parton had been dealing with health problems in the period before her death. According to reports, she was admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center five days before she died with kidney and autoimmune issues. Her final public appearance came virtually on August 19 when she accepted the ACM Poet’s Award. During her speech, she spoke about how important songwriting had always been to her creative life.
Just two days later, Parton opened up about her health in what became her final interview with People. She said she had been dealing with health issues that she had not paid enough attention to while caring for her husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025.
Parton had also canceled an appearance at Dollywood shortly before her death after doctors advised her not to travel. In a prerecorded video, she explained that she sometimes felt dizzy and dehydrated and that her Nashville doctor had told her not to travel that week.
Despite these struggles, Parton remained hopeful and determined to continue working. She said she still had many dreams she wanted to complete and hoped to keep working for as long as possible.
Her death has led to an outpouring of tributes from the entertainment industry. Julia Roberts, her co star in Steel Magnolias, remembered Parton as a “magical and joyous human.” Sally Field and Lily Tomlin, who also worked with Parton, were among the stars who paid tribute to the late singer, songwriter and actress.
With a career spanning more than six decades, Parton leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in music, film, business and philanthropy. Her songs, films, charitable work and unique personality made her one of the most loved entertainment figures of her generation.
