Dolly Parton’s cause of death disclosed: Cancer Battle at Age 80

Dolly Parton died following a brief battle with cancer, her representatives confirmed on Tuesday, August 25. The country music legend was 80 years old.

Her family announced her passing the day after she died at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, surrounded by loved ones.

In recent months, Parton had been open about her health struggles. Just last week, she mentioned that she had been neglecting her own well-being while caring for her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, before his death last year.

“Our cherished Dolly Parton devoted her life and career to spreading joy, laughter, hope, and honesty in everything she did,” read a statement from ‘Team Dolly.’ “Her extraordinary kindness touched countless strangers, yet she was always ready to lend support.”

“Whether through the millions of books given to children via her Imagination Library or her role in funding research that led to a globally used vaccine, Dolly’s deep love for humanity was the heart of her enduring legacy.”

The message added: “After courageously enduring a brief struggle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today surrounded by those she loved.” Tributes poured in from across the music world, with Elton John, Paul McCartney, Taylor Swift, Mick Jagger, Debbie Harry, Eminem, and her goddaughter Miley Cyrus among those sharing heartfelt remembrances.

In their own statement, Parton’s family wrote: “Dolly Parton leaves behind a legacy defined by love, kindness, and strength. Over a career spanning seven decades, she moved generations of listeners with her music and her steadfast dedication to improving the world.”

In March, she made her first public appearance in months to give a speech at Dollywood. “I was just exhausted and worn out from grieving Carl and handling other things,” she explained. “I needed time to rebuild myself spiritually, emotionally, and physically. But I’m doing okay now, it didn’t stop me.”