A Nashville funeral home has paid tribute to Dolly Parton’s “rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see” as her family gathered at her burial site.
The country music legend died aged 80 after a “brief battle” with cancer. On Friday, close family were seen arriving at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Nashville, where her late husband Carl Dean was laid to rest when he died aged 82 in March 2025. She is set to be buried by his side.
Funeral home's tribute to a 'global icon'
The funeral home shared a message on its site remembering her life, echoing the initial statement released by Parton’s representatives. Hailing her as a “global icon and humanitarian,” the obituary said: “Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family.”
Calling her legacy “one of love, kindness, and resilience,” they noted that her seven-decade career has inspired “multiple generations.” “Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact,” the statement concluded.
One of the tombstones dedicated to the couple shows their names engraved on top of a scene of the rolling countryside Parton loved. Her in-laws are also buried in the same location.
Private funeral and final wishes
Parton’s family has confirmed there are currently only plans for a small, private funeral with no intention of a public memorial. They have asked fans to donate to her Imagination Library in lieu of flowers.
Although further details of the intimate service have not been revealed, Parton previously spoke about her plans. In a 2014 interview, she revealed her funeral song choice would be the old country-gospel song “If We Never Meet Again.” “That was my daddy’s favourite. We did sing it at his funeral, and I would like it to be sung at mine,” she said.
As the world processes the loss, more celebrities are speaking out about her impact. Fast and Furious actor Vin Diesel shared a black-and-white photo of Parton with a prayer emoji, with his own cover of her song “I Will Always Love You” in the background.
