Dolly Parton's sister reveals singer's final wish to aid cancer research

Country music legend Dolly Parton died on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80 following a brief battle with cancer, her representatives confirmed. In the days following her passing, her younger sister Stella Parton revealed a final act of generosity, stating that the singer was willing to undergo experimental treatments to potentially help others, even when there was no hope for her own recovery. Stella Parton, 77, shared a tribute on Facebook on August 27, describing her sister as one of the most generous and thoughtful people she had ever known.