Dolly Parton died after being diagnosed with cancer, her representatives have confirmed. The country music icon passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80 following a “brief battle with cancer,” according to a statement issued to PEOPLE on August 25.
Statement from Parton's team
The type of cancer has not been disclosed. In the statement, Parton's team said: “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.”
Final days and death
The statement concluded: “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 a Nashville-area hospital on Friday, August 21, where she died four days later. Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced the news on social media that same day.
