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Dolly Parton, music legend and philanthropist, dies at 80
Dolly Parton, the "Queen of Country" singing icon with a personality as bold as her signature blond coif and rhinestone-encrusted outfits, has died. She was 80. Parton had been battling cancer before her death, her representatives confirmed to USA TODAY on Aug. 25. In a statement announcing the previously undisclosed diagnosis, her representatives reflected on the country icon's legacy and shared details about her final days: "Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones." In addition to a legendary music career during which she earned 11 Grammy Awards (including Lifetime Achievement recognition), Parton starred or made cameo appearances in more than 20 films, including her 1980 debut, "9 to 5," with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin.