Legendary American singer-songwriter Dolly Parton has passed away aged 80, her family has announced.
Parton, best known for classic hits including ‘Jolene’ and ‘I Will Always Love You’, spent more than 65 years in the music industry and was widely celebrated as an icon and inspiration.
“Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family.
Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience,” her family said in a statement.
The beloved music legend and philanthropist passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Nashville.
In a statement to PEOPLE, the musician’s representatives confirmed she had died after a “brief battle with cancer”. The type of cancer was not disclosed.
“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” a statement read.
She recorded her debut single, ‘Puppy Love’, in 1959 at just 13 years old, going on to achieve 25 number-one hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart throughout her celebrated career.
