Dolly Parton press shot
Dolly Parton died as the result of a “brief battle with cancer”, her representatives have revealed.
The country music legend passed away at the age of 80 in a hospital in Tennessee on Tuesday, after more than a year suffering from various health ailments.
Reports have suggested that while those close to her knew that she was unwell, the suddenness of her death came as a surprise – and now her reps have clarified that she died of cancer after spending the last four days of her life in hospital.
“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,” a statement issued to People read.
“Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand.
“Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.
“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”
Tributes from across the entertainment world have poured in following the news, while US President Donald Trump has ordered that the national flag be lowered to half-mast for the next week.
