Dolly Parton, the legendary country singer, songwriter, and entertainer whose career spanned more than six decades, died Tuesday at 80 after a brief battle with cancer, according to her representatives.
According to Fox News, Parton died peacefully at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by loved ones, according to a statement provided to Fox News.
“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,” her representatives said.
The statement highlighted Parton’s extensive charitable work and the impact she had on people far beyond the entertainment industry.
“Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand,” her representatives said.
Parton’s philanthropic work included the Imagination Library, which has provided hundreds of millions of books to children.
The program became one of the most visible parts of her charitable legacy and reflected her longstanding focus on helping children and families.
Her representatives also pointed to Parton’s support for medical research, including funding that helped contribute to the development of a lifesaving vaccine used around the world.
“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,” the statement said.
The announcement comes after Parton had experienced health problems in recent months.
She had canceled planned appearances and performances as she dealt with medical issues, prompting concern among her longtime fans.
Parton built one of the most successful careers in American entertainment, earning worldwide recognition for songs including “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.”
She also became a successful actress, author and businesswoman while remaining closely involved in charitable causes.
Her representatives said she faced her illness bravely before her death Tuesday.
“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 concluded.
Parton was 80 years old.