Dolly Parton Cause of Death: Country Legend's 'Cancer Battle' Revealed After Tragic Passing at 80
Dolly Parton died at 80 years old.
Aug. 25 2026, Published 8:00 p.m. ET
Dolly Parton died at 80 years old after a short battle with cancer, RadarOnline.com has learned.
The country legend's team told TMZ that she was "surrounded by loved ones" when she passed away at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville on Tuesday, August 25.
Dolly Parton's Family Confirms Her Death
Dolly Parton reportedly battled cancer before her passing on August 25.
As Radar previously reported, Parton's nephew, Brian Seaver, announced that the music icon died in a video shared to her official social media.
He did not mention her alleged cancer diagnosis or give deeper insight into her cause of death at the time.
"Sadness lies with us, not with Dolly," he said. "Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents and countless others who have watched her and longed to meet her in the heavens."
'She Will Always Love You'
Dolly Parton suffered health issues in the months leading up to her death.
"She has always been on your television, your record player, your CD, and on your phone playlist, becoming an extended part of your family whether you liked it or not," he continued. "Our family and the team she has entrusted with her legacy will work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever."
Speaking directly to her millions of fans, Seaver referenced one of her hit songs as he assured them, "She will always love you."
Dolly Parton Reportedly Made Funeral Arrangements After Husband's Death
Dolly Parton and Carl Dean married in the 1960s.
Parton's death comes more than one year after she lost her beloved husband, Carl Thomas Dean, who died at 82 in March 2025.
"Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," she wrote on her Instagram, announcing the sad news to fans. "Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."
According to an insider, the Jolene singer actually began planning her own end-of-life arrangements following his passing.
Parton suffered "numerous" health problems and knew she wasn't "going to live forever," the insider noted.
"Frankly, she’s been dying of a broken heart ever since (her husband) Carl died," the insider claimed of her bond with her late husband. "She just hasn’t been the same."
Donald Trump Orders Flags Be Lowered in Honor of Dolly Parton
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Donald Trump shared a tribute to Dolly Parton on social media.
Fan and celebrity tributes poured in to social media after Parton's tragic death was confirmed – including one from the POTUS.
President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform on Tuesday and dubbed the 9 to 5 artist "one of the greatest" voices in country.
"This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will," he penned. "In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one-week period beginning tonight at 6:00 P.M.," he continued about the rare tribute used to mourn government officials, military members, first responders, and prominent public figures, as well as marking national tragedies.
"Rest in Peace, Dolly!" Trump, 80, added. "The World loves you."
