CultureQuiet 71d · day 77
Dolly Parton kept cancer battle private to spare fans worry, niece says
Family explains the country music icon's decision to hide her diagnosis before her death at 80.
What to know
- Parton deliberately kept her cancer diagnosis secret from the public and even most family members to avoid worrying those around her and maintain a positive atmosphere.
- The country icon died at age 80 on August 25 after a brief cancer battle, four days after her last interview hinting at undisclosed health struggles.
- Parton was buried in a small, private ceremony alongside her late husband Carl Dean on August 28, consistent with her wishes to keep the occasion quiet and donate memorial funds to her charities instead.
“She would much rather see people take that $50 you should spend on flowers and give it to her Imagination Library.”
Richie Owens, Parton's first cousin · Billboard ↗ · Sep 2
Dolly Parton Country music iconJada Star Parton's nieceRichie Owens Parton's first cousin and musical collaborator
Stella Parton Parton's sisterCarl Dean Parton's husband
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