Hours after the world was shocked by the news of the death of Dolly Parton, we are learning more about what led to her passing. In a statement obtained by People, Parton’s team confirms that she died after a“brief battle with cancer.”
Parton had recently opened up about her health struggles, although she seemed determined to make a full recovery.
“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,” the statement reads. “Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand. Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact. After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”
Parton was admitted to the hospital on August 21.
The Tragic Death of Dolly Parton
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Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, shared the news that Parton had passed away. Seaver worked as head of her security team for more than two decades.
“Sadness lies with us, not with Dolly,” Seaver said in part. “Dolly has lived in the light, and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her, and longed for her to meet them in the Heavens.”
Seaver also reflected on Parton’s impact, not only to his family, but across the globe.
“Dolly opened doors not just for me, but for her entire family to reach the potential we didn’t even know was possible,” Seaver says. “Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians, and dreamers from every walk of life, and across every continent. By her example, we believe that anything is possible. She never saw a door she couldn’t open. And the doors she opened made and changed history. My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly.”
Parton is known for her philanthropic work almost as much as her music. Seaver vows her generosity will continue, even in her absence.
“Our family and the team she has entrusted with her legacy will work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever,” Seaver says. “Dolly was a farmer, just like her daddy. He farmed the soil; she farmed songs and happiness. Dolly called me and said she wants to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton, because after a life wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserved to be comfortable, and have some rest. Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly … May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you all. She will always love you.”
The family will hold a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to her Imagination Library.