Heartbreak strikes the Parton family again as they say goodbye to a cherished loved one, leaving behind a legacy of love.
David Parton, brother of country music legend Dolly Parton, died on November 15 at his home in White Pine, Tennessee. He was 82.
Dolly and David Parton at the Lyceum Theater, Edinburgh, UK, on October 30, 1980 | Source: Getty Images
While Dolly has yet to release a statement about the loss, her sister Stella shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), expressing comfort in his peaceful passing.
Stella described David as a kind, loyal, and soft-spoken man, affectionately known as “sweet David” by those who knew him. She also highlighted his service in the U.S. Marine Corps.
David also excelled in his career as a bridge-building superintendent for Simpson Construction, where he played a vital role in projects across Kingsport, Johnson City, and Knoxville.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kay; daughters Donna and Dena; “nephew/son” Lucas Townsend; as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition to Dolly and Stella, his surviving siblings include Denver, Bobby, Willadene, Cassie, Freida, and Rachel.
The family will hold a funeral service for David on November 19 at Leadvale Baptist Church in White Pine, with visitation beginning at 5 p.m. He will be laid to rest the following day at Dandridge Memorial Gardens.
In a statement, the family expressed gratitude to Dr. David McNabney, Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice, and the caregivers who supported David in his final days.
David’s passing adds to the sorrow the Parton family has endured in recent years. He was preceded in death by his infant son, Donnie; his parents, Robert and Avie Lee; and three brothers, Larry, Floyd, and Randy.
Randy passed away in January 2021 after a battle with cancer. Following his death, Dolly shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, expressing her family’s sorrow while finding comfort in their faith.
“We are a family of faith and we believe that he is safe with God and that he is joined by members of the family that have gone on before and have welcomed him with joy and open arms,” Dolly wrote.
Dolly remembered Randy as a gifted singer, writer, and entertainer who performed in her band for many years and led his own show at Dollywood since its opening in 1986.
She also highlighted their duets, including “Old Flames Can’t Hold a Candle to You,” which she described as a career highlight.
One of Dolly’s most cherished memories with Randy was their duet “You Are My Christmas,” which featured his daughter Heidi and appeared on her Christmas album. “It was his last musical recording, and he shined on it just like he’s shining in heaven now,” she shared.
Heidi Parton with her father Randy, posted on December 15, 2022 | Source: Instagram.com/heidiparton
In addition to Heidi, Randy is survived by his wife, Deb; his other daughter, Sabyn; and his grandsons, Huston and Trent.
In December 2018, Floyd Parton, a country songwriter, passed away at the age of 61. An obituary published by Atchley Funeral Home in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, described Floyd as a “renaissance man…a man of many talents and areas of knowledge.”
The obituary highlighted his passion for the outdoors, his vast knowledge of nature, and his skill as an exceptional cook.
Dolly and Floyd Parton at Bearsville Studios in North Hollywood, California, on January 15, 1981 | Source: Getty Images
Floyd was also celebrated for his musical achievements, including writing the 1991 No. 1 duet “Rockin’ Years,” recorded by Dolly and Ricky Van Shelton, and the 1978 hit “Nickels and Dimes” from Dolly’s “Heartbreaker” album.
While Dolly did not share a public statement on Floyd’s passing, Stella expressed her love and grief on social media, reflecting on her faith and the time she spent with his late sibling.
Larry Parton, the youngest sibling, died shortly after birth in 1955. Their parents, Robert and Avie Lee Parton, passed away in 2000 and 2003, respectively.
Though the family faces another heartbreaking loss, David’s unwavering kindness, love, and dedication leave an enduring impact that will be deeply treasured.
