The news of David Wilburn Parton’s passing has saddened many, especially those who knew him as the gentle and dedicated brother of Dolly Parton. David, who lived to the age of 82, was known to many through the Nashville music and entertainment circles, but he spent most of his life away from the public eye. On Friday, November 15, his sister Stella Parton took to social media to share the heartbreaking news of his death, offering a glimpse of the quiet strength and warmth that surrounded him.
Stella, who is 75, posted on X (formerly Twitter) to say, “My brother David passed away peacefully this morning.” Her words, simple but heartfelt, conveyed the deep sense of loss felt by the family. She added, “He received his angel wings and is now at peace, but saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy.” Later, she expanded on her feelings in another Facebook post, expressing that her brother passed away “in the early hours of the morning.” Her words on Threads echoed her sentiments: “My brother David left us this morning. After a while, he was granted angel wings. Rest in peace, amazing soul. I will always love you.”
According to an obituary posted online, David, also known as David W. Parton, died peacefully at his home in White Pine, Tennessee. The cause of death remains undisclosed, but the family’s grief is palpable. Despite the family’s deep mourning, Dolly Parton, the legendary singer and icon, has yet to make a public statement about his passing.
In the meantime, friends, fans, and the media have reached out to Dolly and Stella’s representatives for more information. It is known that David worked quietly outside of the spotlight, dedicating his life to his family and career. He was a superintendent and bridge builder for Simpson Construction, working mainly across Tennessee in the sectors of Knoxville, Johnson City, and Kingsport. His life was marked by a hardworking spirit and a focus on building things—both literal bridges and a life grounded in love and duty. The obituary also mentions the appreciation of the family for healthcare workers like Dr. David McNabney of Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice, along with caregivers Aubrie Smith and Robin Schmidt, who provided care and comfort for David in his final days.
David was the second oldest of the 11 Parton siblings. His brothers Randy, Larry, and Floyd have all passed away—Randy in 2021 at the age of 67 after losing his battle with cancer, Floyd at 61 in December 2018, and the family still mourns their loss. His remaining siblings include Willadeene, who’s 84; Coy, 81; Dolly, 78; Robert Jr., 76; Stella; Cassie, 73; Freida, 67; and Rachel, 65. Unlike his famous sisters and brothers, David lived most of his life out of the limelight, in the background of the family’s fame but always with a quiet grace that was deeply rooted in his family values.
He leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Kay Parton, along with two daughters, Donna and Dena, and a grandson named Lucas, who is described in the obituary as a “nephew/son.” His family also includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren—each one a testament to the love and stability that defined his life. Though he avoided the spotlight, his impact on the family was immense, and his absence will be deeply felt.
The funeral will be held at Leadvale Baptist Church in White Pine on Tuesday, November 19, with family and friends gathered to say their goodbyes and celebrate his life. These kinds of gatherings often remind us that, even in times of grief, there are moments of shared love and remembrance that provide comfort and hope.
David’s passing comes nearly four years after the loss of his brother Randy in 2021 and six years after Floyd’s death. In a previous Facebook post about Randy’s passing, Dolly shared her grief openly, writing, “My brother Randy has lost his battle with cancer.” Dolly also expressed her faith, believing that her brother was in a better place, embraced by heaven’s joy, even as the family mourned his absence. They find solace in their faith, trusting that their loved ones—whether in this world or the next—are blessed and surrounded by love.
As the Parton family mourns their beloved brother and brother-in-law, their legacy remains rooted in resilience, love, and faith. David’s gentle spirit and unwavering dedication to his family will be remembered by those who knew him, and his life stands as a reminder of the quiet strength that often sustains us through life’s most difficult moments.
