Dolly Parton’s sister, Stella Parton, told “CBS Mornings” on September 10 that the legendary singer chose to keep her cancer diagnosis private. Stella explained that Dolly “could not bear negative things” and did not want fans or relatives to be worried.
According to Stella, only a few close family members were aware of the illness before Dolly passed away at age 80 on August 25 following a brief battle with cancer. The family announced her death on Instagram, with nephew Bryan Seaver highlighting her musical achievements and philanthropic work.
Family reflections
Stella said Dolly would have been “really happy” seeing the outpouring of love from fans worldwide. She added that Dolly’s family, including her husband Carl and sister Judy, would find comfort knowing that people cared deeply for her.
Career highlights
Dolly rose to fame in 1967 on “The Porter Wagoner Show,” later launching a solo career that earned her ten Grammy Awards, a Kennedy Center Honor, and induction into multiple halls of fame. She famously wrote “I Will Always Love You” as a heartfelt farewell to Wagoner.
Philanthropy
Beyond music, Dolly founded the Imagination Library, a program that sends a free book each month to children regardless of family income. In a statement on the organization’s website, Dolly recalled growing up in the hills of East Tennessee and encouraged children to pursue dreams of becoming doctors, inventors, or ministers.
Her legacy lives on through the countless books delivered to young readers and the enduring influence of her songs.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
