It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of David Wilburn Parton, beloved brother of Dolly Parton, at the age of eighty-two.
On Friday, November 15th, Stella Parton, Dolly’s sister, conveyed the sad news through a heartfelt post on X (formerly known as Twitter). “My brother David passed away peacefully this morning,” she wrote, adding, “He received his angel wings and is now at peace, but saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy.” These touching words encapsulate the deep sorrow and the tender memories the family holds for David.
Stella further expressed her feelings on a Facebook post, mourning their loss. “It’s never easy to lose a loved one,” she said. She described the quietness of the early morning when David departed, finding solace in the belief that he was granted angel wings. “Rest in peace, amazing soul. I will always love you,” she tenderly wrote.
According to an online obituary, David — lovingly known as David W. Parton — passed peacefully at his home in White Pine, Tennessee. The cause of his passing remains private, a choice respected by the family during this time of grieving.
While Dolly Parton, known and adored by many, has not yet shared her thoughts on her brother’s departure publicly, our thoughts and prayers remain with her and her family.
David was widely respected for his professional accomplishments as a superintendent and bridge builder with Simpson Construction. His impact was felt across the Knoxville, Johnson City, and Kingsport regions of Tennessee, leaving behind a legacy marked by dedication and hard work.
As the second oldest among the Parton siblings, David was part of a large, loving family, including the late Randy, Larry, and Floyd; along with Willadeene, Coy, Dolly, Robert Jr., Stella, Cassie, Freida, and Rachel. While his sisters, especially Dolly, have lives in the public eye, David chose a life away from the spotlight.
David leaves behind his cherished wife of 45 years, Kay Parton, and daughters Donna and Dena. He was also a guiding figure for Lucas, described as a “nephew/son,” and is survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will miss him dearly.
The family invites friends and loved ones to pay their respects at a funeral service to be held at Leadvale Baptist Church in White Pine on Tuesday, November 19th. It will be a time to remember the wonderful life David led and the joy he brought to those around him.
With David’s passing, the Parton family revisits a familiar sorrow, having recently mourned the loss of their brother Randy in 2021, who succumbed to cancer, and their brother Floyd in 2018.
Dolly had previously reflected on Randy’s passing, describing the comfort she gained from her faith. She wrote, “Though we know dad is in a better place than we are right now, the family and I are still grieving his passing.”
Indeed, the Parton family embraces a strong belief in spiritual union and the comfort that their departed loved ones are at peace, tenderly embraced by those who have gone before.
