On what should have been a day Dolly Parton celebrated her family’s musical legacy with the world through her new album, she endured a devastating loss. As fans were expecting the release of Parton’s Smoky Mountain DNA – Family, Faith and Fables, Dolly’s sister announced the heartbreaking death of their brother, David.
Stella Parton took to X to break the devastating news. “My brother David passed away peacefully this morning,” she began. “It’s never easy to say goodbye to a loved one, but he got his angel wings and is now at peace.” Dolly has yet to comment on the news of her brother’s passing. However, fans have camped underneath the post to pay their condolences. “So sorry for your loss, and how lucky he was to have two amazing sisters,” one comment read. “I’m so sorry for your loss. Prayers for you and your family,” a second fan penned.
“Sorry for your loss. Sincerely hope your family has many great memories of him,” a third comment read. According to Country Now, David was 82 years old at the time of his death. The circumstances surrounding his passing remain unclear for now, but he is one of the 11 siblings of the iconic Country artist. Unfortunately, David is the fourth of Dolly’s brothers to pass away. Her parents, Robert and Avie Lee Parton, welcomed six boys and six girls. In 1955, her brother Larry died four days after his birthday. Then Floyd, whom she often collaborated with, passed away in 2018. He was 61. Four years later, Dolly lost her brother Randy to cancer at 67 years old.
Dolly Parton’s New Album To ‘Spotlight Families’ Musical Legacy’
The news of Dolly’s brother’s death comes just hours after the Jolene singer expounded on the inspiration behind her new album.
“I owe so much to all the family members past and present who have inspired me along this musical journey. I am honored to spotlight our families’ musical legacy that is my Smoky Mountain DNA.”
In a statement to Billboard, the 11-time Grammy winner explained the influence of her uncle, Bill Owens, on her career after she moved from Sevier County High School to Nashville. “My Uncle Bill Owens was by my side for many years, helping me develop my music. I owe so much to him,” she gushed. Owens was responsible for getting the country icon her first job. They would later go on to start their own publishing company.
True to her words to “spotlight” her family’s legacy, Dolly’s new album features many members of her immediate and extended family. Her cousin Richie Owens produced the album, while her mother and sister have features. Thoughts and prayers to Dolly Parton and her family.
