Dolly Parton’s Older Brother Coy ‘Denver’ Parton Dies At 82

Dolly Parton and her family are mourning the loss of her older brother, Coy “Denver” Parton, who passed away on Thursday, July 23, at the age of 82. While the specific cause of his death has not been shared publicly, the news was confirmed through an obituary shared by Atchley Funeral Home.

The obituary also notes that Denver spent much of his career working as a crane operator, helping build bridges throughout Tennessee. Outside of work, he enjoyed life as a homestead farmer and was an avid hunter.

Denver was known for living a private life despite being a member of one of country music’s most recognizable families. He is one of 12 children born to Avie Lee Owens Parton and Robert Lee Parton in Sevier County, Tennessee.

USA TODAY reports that he is survived by his two daughters, Chris Parton and Jennifer Parton, grandson Ian Parton, brother Bobby Parton, and sisters Willadeene Buzzeo, Dolly Parton, Stella Parton, Cassie Griffith, Freida Parton, Rachel George and Laura Price. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Parton, as well as his parents.

Denver’s passing marks the third loss among Dolly Parton’s siblings in recent years. Randy Parton died in January 2021, Floyd Parton passed away in December 2018, and brother David Parton died in November 2024.

The obituary reveals that funeral services will be private. However those wishing to pay their respects may do so through Atchley Funeral Home.

Dolly Parton has yet to make a public statement regarding her brother’s passing.

Since the passing of her husband, Carl Dean, in March 2025, Dolly Parton has been navigating an emotional year while also being open with fans about her own health challenges. The country music icon previously revealed that she had been receiving treatment for kidney stones, as well as dealing with ongoing issues affecting her immune and digestive systems. She was ultimately forced her to postpone and then cancel her Las Vegas residency, which had been rescheduled from December 2025 to September 2026.

While taking time to recover, Parton has still been working on various projects, like the launch of her Nashville museum and hotel and DOLLY: A True Original Musical. She most recently appeared at the grand opening of her Tennessean Travel Stop.

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In the video message shared with fans in May, Parton explained that she was responding well to treatments but needed additional time before returning to live performances. She then told fans to think of her as an “old classic car” that just needs to be restored a bit and then will be “better than ever.”

As she continues to work on her physical health, Parton assured fans that her mental health is still going strong.