Grief befell the Parton family again when they said goodbye to their loved one, leaving behind a legacy of love.
David Parton, the brother of country music legend Dolly Parton, died on November 15 at his home in White Pine, Tennessee. He was 82 years old.
While Dolly has not yet released a statement about the loss, her sister Stella shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), expressing comfort at his peaceful passing.
Stella described David as a kind, devoted man with a soft voice, who was affectionately called “dear David” by those who knew him. She also talked about his service in the U.S. Marine Corps.
David also excelled in his career as a bridge construction foreman at Simpson Construction, where he was instrumental in projects in Kingsport, Johnson City and Knoxville.
He is survived by his wife Kay, with whom he lived for 45 years, daughters Donna and Dena, “nephew/son” Lucas Townsend, as well as grandchildren and great-granddaughters. In addition to Dolly and Stella, his siblings Denver, Bobby, Willadeen, Cassie, Freida and Rachel are still alive.
The family will hold a memorial service for David on November 19 at the Leadvale Baptist Church in White Pine, starting at 17:00. He will be buried in the Dandridge Memorial Gardens the next day.
In a statement, the family expressed gratitude to Dr. David McNabney, Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice Medical Center, and everyone who cared for David, who supported him in recent days.
