Dolly Parton Remembered as 'Global Icon' at Nashville Burial
Dolly Parton's family gathered at her Nashville burial site as an obituary remembered the country icon as a 'global icon and humanitarian.'
Country music legend Dolly Parton was remembered as a "global icon and humanitarian" in a heartfelt obituary shared by Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum, following her death at the age of 80.
The obituary described Parton as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author, noting that she "died peacefully" on August 25 in Nashville, Tennessee.
"A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, 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," the obituary read.
It further praised the "9 to 5" singer for inspiring "multiple generations of artists and fans" through her music and her "unwavering commitment" to making the world a better place.
Parton's loved ones gathered at her Nashville burial site on Friday, days after her death. Photos showed some of her closest relatives, including her nephew and longtime head of security, Bryan Seaver, arriving at the cemetery and appearing sombre.
At the time of publication, it was unclear whether the funeral had taken place on Friday morning. Parton's representative had previously said that a "small and private service" would be held for her immediate family, in keeping with the musician's wishes.
Parton was set to be laid to rest beside her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, who died in March at the age of 82.
The news of Parton's death was announced by Seaver in a video shared on social media on August 25.
"I am representing the Parton and Owens family today, announcing the passing of my Aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean. Sister, sis, Aunt Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next," Seaver said.
Parton's representatives later confirmed that she had died following a "brief battle" with cancer, surrounded by loved ones at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.
"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," the statement added.
Parton, whose decades-long career made her one of country music's most recognisable figures, leaves behind a legacy spanning music, film, philanthropy, and literature.