Country music icon Dolly Parton died at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer. She passed away at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, where she had been hospitalized since Aug. 21.
Her representatives confirmed the news Aug. 25 to The Tennessean but did not disclose the type of cancer.
In a statement, Parton’s representatives reflected on her life and legacy: “Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. 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.”
Concerns about Parton’s health arose last year after she postponed a Las Vegas residency, saying she was dealing with unspecified health problems that required her to be closer to home in Tennessee for treatment. When she canceled the residency in May, she said she had been dealing with a large number of kidney stones, as well as challenges with her immune and digestive systems.
A private memorial service will be held for immediate family, according to Parton's rep. Fans who would like to pay tribute are encouraged to tag @DollyParton on socials or leave a message at dollyparton.com. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library at imaginationlibrary.com.