Dolly Parton has been remembered in a touching obituary as a “global icon and humanitarian” following her death at age 80.

Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Nashville shared a heartfelt tribute honoring the legendary country singer, songwriter, actress, author, and philanthropist after she died on August 25.

The message described Parton as a woman whose life “shone bright enough for the world to see,” while praising the warmth, humor, and kindness that made generations of fans feel connected to her.

Her obituary also highlighted the lasting impact she made through both her music and her charitable work. Parton inspired generations of artists and fans while spending much of her life finding ways to help others.

“She was known to the world as a beloved singer, songwriter, philanthropist, actress, playwright, and author,” the tribute stated, emphasizing that her influence went far beyond her career in country music.

Parton’s death has brought an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow artists, friends, and family members around the world. Her songs, including Jolene and 9 to 5, have been performed in tributes across the country as those who loved her continue to celebrate her remarkable legacy.

Her family members also gathered at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Nashville on Friday, just days after her passing. Photos from the cemetery showed relatives arriving together, carrying flowers and sharing emotional moments.

Among those present was Parton’s nephew Bryan Seaver, who served as her head of security for more than two decades. Seaver previously announced her death on behalf of the Parton and Owens families.

It remains unclear exactly when the private funeral service took place, but Parton’s family previously confirmed that she wanted a small ceremony attended only by immediate family.

The country legend is expected to be laid to rest beside her husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 at age 82 after nearly six decades of marriage. Their burial site is located at Woodlawn Memorial Park, which is also the final resting place of several well-known figures from country music.

Parton’s name has already been added to the memorial marking the couple’s final resting place, creating an emotional reminder of the life they shared.

According to her family, Parton’s final days reflected the same generosity she showed throughout her life. Her representatives said she died peacefully at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville after a brief battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones.

“Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched,” her representatives said.

Her family has asked fans to honor her memory not by sending flowers, but by supporting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the free book program she founded to give children access to books.

That request feels especially fitting for a woman whose legacy was always about giving back. From her music and films to her charitable work, Parton leaves behind a remarkable body of work and a message of kindness that her family hopes others will continue to carry forward.