Dolly Parton, a revered figure in country music known for her talent, sincerity, and charitable work, has passed away at the age of 80. Her family confirmed her death in a statement released on Tuesday.

Born in the rural setting of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains on January 19, 1946, Dolly Rebecca Parton grew up in a modest two-room cabin with her large family deeply rooted in music. She often recounted her early performances on the front porch, using makeshift props like a tin can and a tobacco stick as a microphone.

At the age of 10, Parton penned her first single, “Puppy Love,” and began frequenting Nashville alongside her uncle, country music songwriter Bill Owens, who played a pivotal role in supporting her career aspirations.

Despite initial success with her music, Parton realized the need to diversify her ventures to secure her financial stability. This led her to establish Dollywood, a 150-acre theme park paying tribute to her heritage and the people of east Tennessee, which opened its doors on May 3, 1986.

Throughout her career, Dolly Parton achieved numerous milestones, including holding the record for the most Top 10 country albums, writing over 3,000 songs, and starring in acclaimed films such as “9 to 5” and “Steel Magnolias.” She also founded her own record label, Dolly Records, and received prestigious accolades from various music institutions.

Parton’s philanthropic endeavors were also noteworthy, with her support for causes ranging from literacy initiatives to disaster relief efforts. Her impact extended beyond music, influencing and mentoring a new generation of country music artists like Shania Twain, Taylor Swift, and Miley Cyrus, who regarded her as a role model.

Dolly Parton’s legacy as a music icon, humanitarian, and cultural influencer remains significant, leaving an enduring mark on the industry and the hearts of her fans worldwide.