Dolly Parton Wanted 'Very, Very Private' Funeral
Owens said the country icon chose a family-only burial beside her husband and wanted fans to donate to her Imagination Library instead of send flowers.
- On Friday, August 28, country music icon Dolly Parton was laid to rest at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Nashville alongside her husband, Carl Dean, who died in 2025.
- Parton's cousin, Richie Owens, explained that the small burial was strictly in accordance with the country singer's long-held wishes for a "very, very private" final farewell.
- The legendary performer preferred fans donate $50 to her Imagination Library nonprofit rather than attend an elaborate funeral, Owens noted. Parton, described as "personable, magical, just very giving," felt strongly about supporting her charities.
- Family members, including nephew and head of security Bryan Seaver, attended the burial last week in Nashville. The intimate service included only a few family members, as the "9 to 5" singer wanted to keep things quiet.
- Following her death on August 25, tributes from across the music industry continue to honor Parton's legacy. Peers remember her not just for iconic music, but for her spirit, kindness, and commitment to global philanthropy through her Imagination Library.
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Dolly Parton's 'Quiet' Burial Beside Late Husband Carl Dean at Nashville Cemetery Was Her Choice, Says Singer's Cousin: 'It Was Just What She Wanted'
Dolly Parton's cousin revealed her 'intimate' burial in Nashville was 'her choice' as she was laid to rest next to Carl Dean.
"The word 'funeral' is constantly being heard, I don't believe that's exactly what happened in this case," Richie Owens stressed.
Dolly Parton’s Cousin Shares Details About Her “Very Private” and Intimate Burial in Nashville
Richie Owens revealed how the “Jolene” singer’s family honored her final wishes with the funeral.Dolly Parton performs at Glastonbury Festival on June 29, 2014 in Glastonbury, England.Credit: Getty ImagesThe GistDolly Parton’s cousin Richie Owens revealed how the “Jolene” singer’s family honored her final wishes with her funeral in Nashville, Tennessee.Parton died at age 80 on August 25 following a “brief battle with cancer.”Owens also recounted…
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