Dolly Parton, the multi-talented singer, actor, and philanthropist, has died at the age of 80. Her family officially confirmed her death in a video shared on Instagram on Tuesday. Parton had reportedly experienced declining health in recent years.
Her nephew, Brian Seaver, announced the news on behalf of the Parton and Owens families. He stated that the video announcement was something Parton herself had requested be made years prior, should the need arise. Seaver, who served as Parton's head of security for over two decades, shared his profound sadness while emphasizing Parton's joyful spirit.
"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," Seaver said in the video, referencing Parton's late husband Carl Dean and her parents. The announcement concluded by noting that the situation was still developing.