Houston, TX, August 25, 2026 —

Dolly Parton, the legendary singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist, has died at the age of 80 in Nashville, Tennessee. Parton was a towering figure in country music and beyond, leaving behind a legacy that spanned decades and touched millions through her music, business endeavors, and charitable work.

Born in East Tennessee, Parton rose to fame in the late 1960s and became one of the most recognizable and beloved entertainers in the world. Her career was marked by numerous hit songs, including the enduring classics “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” the latter of which became a global phenomenon after being covered by Whitney Houston.

Beyond her musical achievements, Parton was a savvy businesswoman. She established Dollywood, a theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, which has become a major tourist attraction and employer in the region. Her entrepreneurial spirit also extended to various other ventures.

A dedicated philanthropist, Parton’s most notable contribution is the Imagination Library, a program that mails free books to children from birth to age five. Launched in 1995, the program has expanded internationally, aiming to foster a love of reading and improve early childhood literacy.

Parton’s influence extended across genres and generations, cementing her status as a cultural icon. Her distinctive voice, songwriting talent, and charismatic personality endeared her to a vast audience, making her a household name far beyond the country music community.



Story summarized from the original created by Kristin M. Hall, Associated Press on www.click2houston.com, see more information here.

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