Country music legend Dolly Parton has been laid to rest beside her late husband, Carl Dean, following a private family funeral in Nashville, Tennessee.
Parton, who died on August 25 at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer, was buried on Friday at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum, where Dean was also laid to rest following his death in March 2025.
Only immediate family members attended the private ceremony.
Parton’s great-niece, Lainey Parton, confirmed the burial in an emotional tribute, describing the singer as “granny” and recalling the role she played in her life.
She said Parton had always made her feel capable of pursuing her dreams and supported her through beauty school.
“It still doesn’t feel real that she’s gone. I’m going to miss her voice, her laugh, her hugs, and just knowing she was there,” Lainey wrote.
Parton and Dean were married for almost 60 years. Their names are engraved together on a brass plaque at the mausoleum, alongside engravings depicting their childhood homes.
The burial comes as tributes continue to pour in for the singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist, whose career spanned seven decades.
Parton was remembered by Woodlawn Memorial Park for her music and songwriting, as well as her wit, warmth and generosity.
Her philanthropic legacy includes the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which provides free books to young children. Her family has asked mourners to make donations to the organisation instead of sending flowers.
A tribute concert was also held at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry House on Saturday, with Parton’s niece Jada Star performing The Orchard, a song she recorded with her aunt in 2024.
Country music star Jelly Roll made a surprise appearance during the finale, which featured a group performance of Parton’s hit song 9 to 5.
Meanwhile, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced plans to name Nashville International Airport after Parton in recognition of her contribution to the state and the wider music industry.
In the United Kingdom, Parton’s 1980 hit 9 to 5 has also surged in popularity following her death and is currently competing for the number one position on the singles chart.
Parton leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond country music, with generations of artists and fans continuing to celebrate her music, philanthropy and influence.