Remembering Dolly Parton

Remembering Dolly Parton

19 January 1946 – 25 August 2026

The world has lost a true legend.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dolly Parton, an extraordinary singer, songwriter, entertainer and humanitarian whose music and unmistakable personality brought happiness to millions of people around the world.

For more than seven decades, Dolly was far more than a country music star. She was a storyteller whose songs became part of people’s lives. From Jolene and 9 to 5 to Coat of Many Colors, Islands in the Stream and the unforgettable I Will Always Love You, her music crossed generations, genres and borders.

But perhaps what made Dolly so special was the person behind the music.

Despite becoming one of the most famous entertainers in the world, she never forgot where she came from. Her warmth, humour, generosity and ability to connect with ordinary people remained at the heart of everything she did.

She believed passionately in giving people opportunities and, particularly, in giving children the best possible start in life. Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, hundreds of millions of books have been given free to children, encouraging generations to read, learn, dream and believe in themselves.

That generosity says so much about who Dolly Parton was.

She showed that success doesn’t have to change who you are. That you can be ambitious while remaining kind. That you can stand out from the crowd without putting anybody else down. And that when you are fortunate enough to achieve something in life, you can use that success to help others.

Behind the rhinestones, the wonderful humour and that instantly recognisable voice was an incredibly talented songwriter, a pioneering businesswoman and, above all, someone who seemed determined to leave the world a little better than she found it.

Her passing at the age of 80 marks the end of an extraordinary life, but certainly not the end of her influence.

Her songs will continue to be played.
Her words will continue to inspire.
Children will continue to receive books because of her generosity.
And people who weren’t even born during Dolly’s lifetime will grow up knowing her music.

That is a remarkable legacy.

Thank you for the music, the laughter, the kindness and the memories, Dolly.

You were truly one of a kind.

Rest in peace, Dolly Parton.
1946 – 2026

And we will always love you.

Scan of record cover: editorial post only