….Family Holds Private Service for Late Icon Who Died at 80
Country music Legend Dolly Parton has been laid to rest beside her husband in a private family funeral in Nashville her great-niece confirmed.
The 80-year-old singer who died earlier in the week was buried on Friday, August 28, 2026 next to her late husband, Carl Dean, at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in the Tennessee city.
Parton’s great-niece, Lainey Parton, posted an emotional tribute a day after the burial. She described Parton as “granny” and said the star had always made family members feel loved.
“Because she couldn’t have kids of her own, she always made us feel like we were hers. She loved us that way, and I’ll forever be grateful for that,” Lainey wrote.
She recalled how Parton supported her dreams and helped her through beauty school. “She didn’t just tell me to chase my dreams, she helped me get there,” she added.
An obituary posted by Woodlawn Memorial Park remembered Parton “for her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family.”
It added: “Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.”
The family requested donations to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in lieu of flowers. The programme sends free books to young children.
Tributes have continued in Nashville. On Saturday, Parton’s niece Jada Star performed at the Grand Ole Opry House, while country singer Jelly Roll made a surprise appearance during a group performance of 9 to 5. Carly Pearce, who started as a performer at Parton’s Dollywood theme park, also took part.
Tennessee’s governor announced plans to rename Nashville International Airport after Parton. In the UK, 9 to 5 surged to the top of streaming charts following her death, according to the Official Chart Company.
