It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of David Wilburn Parton, brother to the beloved singer Dolly Parton. At 82 years of age, David left this world to gain his angel wings.
Stella Parton, David’s sister, shared this heartbreaking news on social media. In her message, she expressed her sadness over losing her dear brother, stating, “My brother David passed away peacefully this morning.” Her words were filled with love and pain, “He received his angel wings and is now at peace, but saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy.”
Stella followed up with another heartfelt message on Facebook, reinforcing the difficulty of losing a loved one. She posted, “In the early hours of the morning, my brother David left us.” Her words spoke of his departure and the peace he hopefully found, “Rest in peace, amazing soul,” she wrote with affection. “I will always love you.”
An online obituary noted that David, lovingly referred to as David W. Parton, peacefully departed at his home in White Pine, Tennessee, on Friday, November 15. While the exact cause of his passing remains undisclosed, his memory stays alive among his family and friends.
While Dolly Parton, now 78, has yet to publicly comment on her brother’s death, the Parton family representatives have been reached for further details.
David led a dedicated life as a superintendent and bridge builder for Simpson Construction, making contributions across Tennessee in Knoxville, Johnson City, and Kingsport. His work ethic and integrity are remembered fondly by those who knew him, according to his obituary.
David was the second oldest among the 11 Parton siblings. His passing adds another sorrow to the family, which includes the late Randy, Larry, and Floyd. Meanwhile, Willadeene, Coy, Dolly, Robert Jr., Stella, Cassie, Freida, and Rachel continue to carry the family legacy forward.
Unlike his famous siblings, David chose a life away from the spotlight, relishing the simpler pleasures of family life. His humble nature endeared him to those around him, friends and family alike.
David is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Kay Parton, his loving daughters Donna and Dena, along with Lucas, a “nephew/son,” and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were the light of his life.
The Parton family invites you to join them in honoring David at a funeral service set to take place on Tuesday, November 19, at the Leadvale Baptist Church in White Pine.
This recent loss comes almost four years after the Parton family mourned the departure of David’s brother Randy, who succumbed to cancer in 2021 at the age of 67. A similar cloud of sorrow hung over the family when another brother, Floyd, passed away back in December 2018, at 61.
Reflecting on Randy’s passing, Dolly Parton once shared her family’s strength and faith, saying, “My brother Randy has lost his battle with cancer.” Despite the pain, her words resonated with hope and comfort, “Though we know dad is in a better place than we are right now, the family and I are still grieving his passing.”
The Parton family finds solace in their strong faith, believing in divine protection and the loving presence of their departed loved ones. In unity, they remember and cherish David, celebrating a life lived full of love and kindness.
