Dolly Parton’s heartbreaking wish revealed in video by her family announcing her death at 80: Live updates

Dolly Parton never let anyone forget that she was born poor. So ‘dirt poor’ that her illiterate sharecropper daddy could only pay the doctor who delivered her in their one-room cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains with a sack of cornmeal.

Ferocious hard work, sustained talent, an endearing persona and a sharp business brain transformed those deeply humble roots into a vast business empire that, it was said, would have made the iconic singer-songwriter into a billionaire if she didn’t give so much away to good causes.

The irrepressible Queen of Country, who has died aged 80, fans liked to think, summed up all that was best about America – a hard-working, God-fearing star who didn’t forget her roots or the less fortunate, and didn’t let celebrity go to her bouffant-haired head.

President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to announce that American flags would be lowered to half-staff to honor Dolly Parton on Tuesday.

‘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,’ he began.

‘There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you. President DONALD J. TRUMP’

Political commentator Megyn Kelly paid tribute to Dolly Parton after learning of her passing on Tuesday, writing:

‘Dolly Parton seemed as close to total goodness as any mere mortal could come. She united us all in our love and admiration for her and, now, in mourning her. God bless you Dolly, R.I.P’

Dolly Parton gushed about her late husband, Carl Thomas Dean, and struck an optimistic tone about her career in the devastating last interview before her death, admitting that she still had ‘so many things’ to achieve.

Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, who also served as her head of security, announced on Tuesday that the country music icon had died at the age of 80.

Just four days before the announcement, Parton spoke to People about her health and the projects she was looking forward to.

Parton said that she had been dealing with some health issues that she had not paid attention to while caring for her late husband.

‘It’s not like I haven’t been through hard times with my health,’ she added.

Dolly Parton’s publicity team released a statement in wake of the singer’s death.

‘A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family,’ the statement read.

‘Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience,’ it continued.

‘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. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.’

Dolly Parton’s nephew Bryan Seaver took to social media to announce the legendary singer’s death.

‘I am representing the Parton and Owens family today, announcing the passing of my Aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean,’ Seaver began.

‘Sister, sis, Aunt, Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next,’ he continued. ‘This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality.’

‘As her head of security, for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me,’ Seaver said.

‘I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly.’

Dolly Parton has died aged 80.

The legendary country singer’s death was confirmed today in an Instagram video posted by her nephew.

Parton, who is often referred to as the Queen of Country, enjoyed an illustrious music career that spanned an incredible six decades and was arguably best known for her hits Jolene and 9 to 5.

Her passing came after months of health woes that saw her pull out of a string of public appearances, fueling fan fears for her wellbeing.