Dolly Parton Mourns the Death of Her Brother David Wilburn Parton at 82
David Wilburn Parton, the older brother of country music legend Dolly Parton, has passed away at the age of 82. The sad news was confirmed in an obituary that stated David died at his home in White Pine, Tennessee on November 15, 2024. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Remembering David Wilburn Parton
Following the news of her brother’s passing, Dolly’s sister Stella took to social media to pay tribute to David. In a heartfelt post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Stella shared the heartbreaking news and expressed her grief. “My brother David passed away peacefully this morning. It’s never easy to say goodbye to a loved one, but he got his angel wings and is now at peace,” she wrote. Stella also shared the news on her official Facebook page, acknowledging the pain of losing a loved one and sharing her sorrow with her followers.
The Parton Family’s Loss
David Wilburn Parton was born on March 30, 1942, in White Pine, Tennessee. He was one of Dolly’s 11 siblings, born to Robert and Avie Lee Parton. The Parton family consisted of six boys and six girls, including Willadeene, Coy Denver, Dolly Rebecca, Bobby Lee, Stella Mae, Cassie Nan, Randel Huston “Randy,” Larry Gerald, twins Estel Floyd and Freida Estelle, and Rachel Ann.
David led a relatively private life and kept mostly out of the spotlight. He worked as a retired bridge builder superintendent for a company called Simpson Construction. Throughout his career, he contributed to the construction of numerous bridges in the Kingsport, Johnson City, and Knoxville areas.
David Wilburn Parton is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kay Parton, two daughters named Donna and Dena, as well as his “nephew/son” Lucas. He also leaves behind several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will cherish his memory.
A Family No Stranger to Loss
The Parton family has experienced their fair share of loss in recent years. In 2021, they mourned the passing of Randy Parton, who lost his battle with cancer at the age of 67. Additionally, Floyd Parton passed away in December 2018 at the age of 61. During these difficult times, Dolly has shared her family’s faith and belief that their loved ones are in a better place, surrounded by joy and embraced by those who have gone before them.
Dolly Parton and Stella Parton have not yet commented publicly on David’s passing. However, our requests for comment from their representatives have gone unanswered. As the news of David Wilburn Parton’s death spreads, fans and admirers of the Parton family continue to send their love and support during this time of mourning.
