Dolly Parton's older brother, Coy "Denver" Parton, has tragically passed away. As reported by USA Today, he was 82 years old.
Per the outlet, he had been a crane operator, homestead farmer, and an "ardent hunter". He is survived by two daughters, Chris and Jennifer Parton, as well as a grandson, Ian Parton.
He is also survived by his seven sisters: Willadeene Buzzeo; Dolly Parton; Stella Parton; Cassie Griffith; Freida Parton; Rachel George; and Laura Price.
His wife, Carolyn, had died before him.
An article from Taste of Country in 2025 had described him as "perhaps the most private" in the Parton family. They added that "There is almost nothing known about him." Of course, he is one of 12 famous children of Avie Lee Owens Parton, and Robert Lee Parton.
This comes after Dolly Parton has faced a pretty sad number of losses in recent years. She lost her brother, singer Randy Parton, back in 2021, and her husband Carl Dean back in March of this year. We hope she, and the whole Parton family, are doing okay, given all this loss as of late.
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Tributes Have Poured in for the Brother of Dolly Parton
Coy Parton's obituary was filled with people wishing their condolences.
One commenter lamented, "Dolly Parton and Family I am so sorry for your loss, I want to extend my deepest sympathy and condolences to you. My thoughts and prayers are with you, much love to you."
Another commenter wrote, "Dolly Parton & Family, I am very sorry to hear of the passing of your brother, Denver. Please know that you will all be in my thoughts & prayers."
Others reflected on his job as a crane operator. "I never knew you," one wrote, "but you sounded like a wonderful man. A crane operator, is a very dangerous job. Hope your company appreciated you. God bless the Parton family."
Several other people had posted their condolences in the form of lighting a candle. There were at least 5 people who lamented his loss in this way.
May he rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole Parton family.
