- Dolly Parton’s older brother, Coy “Denver” Parton, has died at the age of 82.
- Denver lived a private life in Tennessee, working as a crane operator, farmer, and hunter.
- He is survived by several siblings, including Dolly and Stella Parton, along with his children and grandson.
Dolly Parton and her family are mourning the loss of one of the singer’s older brothers. Coy “Denver” Parton died on July 23 at the age of 82, according to an obituary published by Atchley Funeral Home. No cause of death has been publicly disclosed.
Born on Aug. 16, 1943, in Sevierville, Tennessee, Denver was one of the 12 children of Robert Lee and Avie Lee Parton. While several of his siblings pursued careers in entertainment, including country music icon Dolly Parton and singer-songwriter Stella Parton, Denver preferred a quiet life away from the spotlight.
Coy “Denver” Parton, older brother of Dolly Parton, has died
Instead of fame, Denver devoted his life to hard work and family. He spent many years as a crane operator helping build bridges throughout Tennessee and was also known as a homestead farmer and avid hunter. Friends and loved ones remembered him as someone who enjoyed the outdoors and remained deeply connected to his East Tennessee roots.
Denver was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Parton, as well as his parents, several brothers, including David, Randy, Floyd and Larry Parton, and other close family members. He is survived by his daughters, Chris and Jennifer Parton; his grandson, Ian Parton; brother Bobby Parton; sisters Willadeene Buzzeo, Dolly Parton, Stella Parton, Cassie Griffith, Freida Parton and Rachel George, along with numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
A life away from the spotlight
Denver’s passing marks another heartbreaking loss for the close-knit Parton family, which has endured the deaths of several siblings in recent years. Just last month, Stella Parton reflected on that grief, saying losing siblings has been especially difficult because of the lifelong bond they shared growing up together in rural Tennessee.
Although he largely stayed out of the public eye, Denver remained an important part of one of country music’s most beloved families. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the community where he spent his life, and the countless loved ones who will remember his quiet strength and devotion.
