Country music icon Dolly Parton dies at age 80

Country music superstar, songwriter, and businesswoman Dolly Parton has died at age 80 in Nashville. ABC News reported that Parton died peacefully at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones. Her publicist confirmed her death was caused by a brief battle with cancer. [1][2]

ABC News reported that a small private service will be held for her immediate family. Parton enjoyed a career that spanned more than six decades. Alongside her music career, she was well known for her philanthropy and her business ventures, including her theme park operations. [1][2][3]

Parton was one of the most successful country music performers in history, selling more than 100 million records globally. Her signature hit songs included Jolene, 9 to 5, and I Will Always Love You. She achieved 26 number-one singles on the Billboard country charts, which set a record for a female artist, and earned 10 competitive Grammy Awards. [3][6]

Parton built a business empire during her career, including the Dollywood theme park located in her home state. She also created the Dollywood Foundation to manage her cultural and philanthropic efforts. [3][6]