Dolly Parton dies at 80, leaving a legacy of music and philanthropy

Dolly Parton, the iconic country singer-songwriter, died Tuesday at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer, according to her publicist. Her death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and celebrities worldwide, with flags flying at half-mast across the US and landmarks in Tennessee illuminated in pink. Source: Euronews Source: BBC

Business empire

Parton built a business empire that transformed her native Sevier County, Tennessee. Dollywood, the theme park she co-owned since 1986, draws over 4 million visitors annually and is the county's largest employer, with about 4,500 employees. Source: CNN Source: AP News The park generates an estimated $1.8 billion each year. Source: AP News Her ventures also included a production company, a cosmetics line, and a coffee brand. Source: BBC

Philanthropy and legacy

Parton's Imagination Library, launched in 1995, has distributed more than 330 million books to children worldwide. Source: LA Times She was also a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ acceptance, often citing her Christian faith as the root of her support. Source: AP News Her songwriting, including hits like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You," is celebrated for capturing the changing experiences of American women. Source: NPR

Mourning and tributes

Fans flocked to Dollywood and memorial sites in Nashville and Sevierville to pay their respects. Source: The Guardian A private funeral is expected this weekend in Nashville. Source: BBC