Dolly Parton, the singer, songwriter, actor and philanthropist whose songs and unmistakable personality made her one of the world’s most beloved entertainers, has died aged 80.
Parton died in Nashville on August 25. Announcing her death on behalf of the Parton and Owens families, her nephew Bryan Seaver said it was “an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness”.
Her family’s official obituary remembered “a rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see”, adding that Parton would remain an inspiration through her music, songwriting, “wit, warmth, and kindness”.
Born in Tennessee in 1946, Parton rose from an impoverished childhood as one of 12 children to become a defining figure in country music. Across seven decades she wrote enduring songs including Jolene, Coat of Many Colors, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You, while also enjoying a successful acting career in films including 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias. Her records sold more than 100 million copies worldwide.
Parton also had a long relationship with Australian audiences. Her final Australian tour was the Blue Smoke World Tour in February 2014. She had previously returned to Australia in 2011 after an absence of amost three decades. Her first Australian tour was in 1979.
Tributes have already poured in for the 11-time Grammy winner who was noted for her philanthropy as well as her music for which she earned 25 No.1 Country Music hits.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has paid tribute remembering her as a “singer and songwriter of rare power and talent” who made the world a brighter, more compassionate place.”
Singer Beyonce has paid tribute to Dolly Parton, saying in a statement published to her website: “Dolly, 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.”
Friend and collaborator Vince Gill said “We are all crushed here at our house. One of the most beautiful sounds I’ve ever heard was when Dolly and I sang that last note of ‘I Will Always Love You’ the year we performed it on the CMA Awards.”
Parton leaves behind an extraordinary catalogue of songs, but also a reputation for generosity, humour and humanity that transcended country music.