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Country music superstar and actress Dolly Parton is grieving a painful loss in her family, as loved ones mourn the passing of someone close to the singer.
The family’s first public response came through Dolly’s sister, Stella Parton, who shared a heartfelt message. Dolly herself has not yet commented publicly.
Dolly Parton has not yet released a public statement following the loss in her family. The first public response instead came from one of her siblings, offering a brief message of gratitude as loved ones continue to mourn. | Source: Getty Images
In a statement to People, Stella thanked supporters for their condolences as the family mourned the loss.
“My brother Denver was a deeply private person,” she said. She added, “I appreciate the kind messages and expressions of condolences on behalf of my nieces Chris and Jennifer, and the rest of my family.”
Stella Parton became the first member of the family to publicly acknowledge the loss, sharing a message of gratitude for the support shown during a difficult time. Her statement offered a rare glimpse into how the Parton family is mourning together. | Source: Getty Images
The family member Stella referred to was Coy “Denver” Parton, who died at age 82 on July 23, 2026, according to Atchley Funeral Home.
Unlike his famous sisters, Denver largely stayed out of the public eye. According to his obituary, he worked as a crane operator for many years, helping construct bridges, and also enjoyed homestead farming and hunting. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Parton.
Denver is survived by his daughters, Chris and Jennifer; his grandson, Ian; and several siblings, including Bobby, Willadeene, Dolly, Stella, Cassie, Freida, Rachel, and Laura.
Private services will be held, with arrangements entrusted to Atchley Funeral Home in Sevierville.
Denver’s Death Follows Other Losses in the Parton Family
Fox News reported that one of the family’s earliest tragedies came in 1955, when Dolly’s infant brother, Larry, died just four days after his birth. Dolly was 9 years old at the time.
An obituary published by the same funeral home stated that Dolly’s father, Robert Lee Parton, died in 2000 at the age of 79. Three years later, her mother, Avie Lee, died at age 80, as listed on her Find a Grave memorial page.
Dolly Parton has experienced several personal losses over the years, including the deaths of multiple siblings, her parents, and most recently her brother Coy “Denver” Parton. | Source: Getty Images
The family suffered another loss in 2018 when Floyd died at age 61. E! News, citing his obituary, reported that Floyd was a songwriter who penned “Rockin’ Years,” the hit duet recorded by Dolly and Ricky Van Shelton, along with other songs performed by his sister.
Dolly Parton poses with her brother Floyd Parton in 1981. Floyd, a songwriter who collaborated with his sister during his career, died in 2018 at age 61. | Source: Getty Images
In 2021, Dolly publicly mourned the death of her brother Randy, who died after battling cancer. In a statement shared on her Facebook page, she said the family found comfort in their faith and believed Randy had been reunited with loved ones who had gone before him.