Posted Wed 26 Aug 2026 at 4:06amWed 26 Aug 2026 at 4:06am, updated Wed 26 Aug 2026 at 4:45amWed 26 Aug 2026 at 4:45amDolly Parton had broad and enduring appeal, which crossed generations, class, race and even musical tastes. (Reuters: Mike Blake)American country music legend Dolly Parton has died, aged 80. A beloved icon and philanthropist, Parton was one of the most recognisable stars of the country music world for decades.Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, made the announcement on social media."My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you," he said in a video message. "She has always been on your television, your record player, your CD, and on your phone playlist becoming an extended part of your family, whether you liked it or not."Parton last year shared that she was experiencing health challenges, which she did not detail. It forced the cancellation of a planned residency in Las Vegas this year."Everyone thinks that I am sicker than I am," she said in a video in October. "I'm not ready to die yet. I don't think God is through with me."US President Donald Trump said American flags would be lowered across the country for a week in Parton's honour."Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away," Mr Trump wrote on social media shortly after the news broke. "This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will."Mr Seaver said Parton's family and team would "work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever"."Dolly was a farmer, just like her daddy," he said. "He farmed the soil, she farmed songs and happiness."He said she had told him she wanted to "rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton"."Because after a life wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest."