Heartbreak for Dolly Parton: Iconic Singer's Brother Coy 'Denver' Parton Passes Away

Coy “Denver” Parton, the older brother of country music icon Dolly Parton, has passed away at the age of 82. Parton died on Thursday, July 23, according to an obituary released by Atchley Funeral Home in Sevierville, Tennessee. The cause of death was not disclosed to the public.

Known affectionately as Denver, Coy Parton maintained a life largely removed from the public spotlight that enveloped his famous sister. He dedicated many years of his life to working as a crane operator, contributing to the construction of various bridges. Beyond his professional career, he was also a dedicated homestead farmer and an enthusiastic hunter.

Denver was one of 12 children born to Lee Parton and Avie Lee Owens Parton in Sevier County, Tennessee. His sister, Dolly Parton, has frequently recounted her experiences growing up in a large family within the rural confines of the Smoky Mountains. These formative years and family narratives have profoundly influenced her prolific career in music, storytelling, and her enduring public persona.

Coy “Denver” Parton is survived by his two daughters, Chris Parton and Jennifer Parton, and his grandson, Ian Parton, along with Ian’s fiancée, Taylor York. He is also survived by his brother, Bobby Parton, and his sisters: Willadeene Buzzeo, Dolly Parton, Stella Parton, Cassie Griffith, Freida Parton, Rachel George, and Laura Price. Additionally, he leaves behind his sister-in-law, Kay Parton, as well as a large extended family including nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Special mentions include his nephew Mitchell Blalock and close friends Nancy Hurst and Kathy Farr.

While Dolly Parton has not yet issued a public statement regarding her brother’s passing, Denver’s death marks another significant loss for the Parton family in recent years. The family has faced several bereavements, including the passing of Dolly’s brother Randy Parton, a singer and musician who often performed with her, in 2021 at 67 years old. Her brother Floyd Parton, who co-wrote some of Dolly’s songs including “Rockin’ Years,” died in 2018. More recently, her brother David Parton passed away in 2024, and her husband, Carl Dean, died in March 2025.

Following Randy’s death, Dolly shared a heartfelt statement reflecting on her family’s deep faith, saying, “The family and I are grieving his loss but we know he is in a better place than we are at this time. We are a family of faith and we believe that he is safe with God.” This sentiment likely resonates with the family during this latest time of grief.

Dolly Parton continues to be celebrated as one of the most influential artists in country music history. Throughout her decades-long career, she has achieved 25 No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, with iconic tracks like “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “9 to 5.” Her enduring legacy was further recognized with her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, followed by the release of her rock album, Rockstar, in 2023. Parton also recently announced a Broadway-bound production, Dolly: A True Original Musical, based on her remarkable life and career.