Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80 in Nashville, Tennessee.

The death of the celebrated singer, songwriter and philanthropist was announced on Tuesday, August 25, by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in a video shared on Instagram.

Seaver, who served as Parton’s head of security for more than two decades, said the announcement was something the music icon had personally asked him to make years ago.

He described Parton as a source of inspiration to her family and generations of musicians, singers, songwriters and fans worldwide, saying her career had opened doors for countless people.

A statement from Parton’s representatives confirmed that she died peacefully in Nashville at the age of 80. It described her seven-decade career as one marked by timeless music, songwriting, philanthropy, warmth and resilience.

Parton was also remembered for her extensive charitable work and her commitment to improving the lives of others. Her representatives said her music and philanthropic legacy would continue to influence generations.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Carl Thomas Dean, as well as her parents, Avie Lee Caroline Owens and Robert Lee Parton Sr.

According to her representatives, Parton requested a small, private funeral service attended only by immediate family.

Fans and friends around the world have been encouraged to honour her memory through tributes on social media and messages shared through her official website.