Dolly Parton’s Cause Of Death Revealed

Dolly Parton died Tuesday following a “brief battle with cancer,” her representatives revealed after her death was announced and as fans gathered outside her Nashville home to mourn the loss of one of country music’s most beloved stars.

A spokesperson for the 80-year-old icon confirmed the previously undisclosed diagnosis in a statement to People Magazine. The specific type of cancer was not disclosed.

“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 read.

“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact. After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” the statement added.

The Tennessee-born singer was hospitalized on Friday and died four days later at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville.

Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, confirmed her death in an Instagram video.

“But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly. Dolly has lived in the light, and is in the arms of Jesus,” Seaver said.

Parton’s death follows a period of growing health concerns. Fans were alarmed in September 2025 when she postponed a scheduled six-night Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace. True to form, Parton eased the disappointment with humor, joking that she needed a “100,000-mile check-up” — and clarifying that it didn’t involve her plastic surgeon.

Four days before her death, she opened up to PEOPLE about her recent health struggles.

“I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over [her late husband] Carl,” Parton told the outlet.

President Donald Trump ordered American flags flown at half-staff nationwide for one week beginning Tuesday evening in honor of the philanthropist and country music icon.

“Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will,” Trump said in a Truth Social post.

At Parton’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family, The Daily Wire reported. The family is asking that, instead of flowers, people donate to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Parton will reportedly be laid to rest beside her late husband, Carl Dean, at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum — dressed in her signature high heels.