David Wilburn Parton, the beloved older brother of country music legend Dolly Parton, passed away peacefully at his home in White Pine, Tennessee, at the age of 82.
The news of his passing was shared publicly by his younger sister, Stella Parton, who posted a heartfelt message on social media. In her moving tribute, Stella reflected on the difficulty of saying goodbye while offering comfort in knowing that her brother had earned his angel wings and was at peace. She later extended her sincere thanks to fans and well-wishers across platforms for their overwhelming flood of condolences and kind thoughts during a solemn time for the family.
Born into the famously large Parton family, David was the second of twelve children born to Robert Lee and Avie Lee Parton. Raised alongside his siblings in a modest two-room cabin in Locust Ridge, nestled within Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, David grew up rooted in the values of hard work, faith, and fierce family loyalty. While several of his brothers and sisters pursued careers in the entertainment industry—achieving fame as singers, songwriters, and performers—David chose a quieter, grounded life away from the spotlight.
For many years, David worked as a bridge-building superintendent for Simpson Construction. Through his dedication and leadership, he played a vital role in developing critical infrastructure across East Tennessee, including major construction projects in Kingsport, Johnson City, and Knoxville. Though he preferred a quiet, private life in his home state, David remained a deeply supportive presence in the background, occasionally accompanying his world-famous sister to special events over the decades.
David was surrounded by a loving family throughout his life. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kay; his daughters, Donna and Dena; his “nephew/son,” Lucas Townsend; as well as a cherished lineage of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his surviving siblings, including Denver, Bobby, Willadeene, Cassie, Freida, Rachel, Stella, and Dolly. He was preceded in death by his infant son, Donnie; his parents; his brothers Larry, Floyd, and Randy; his niece, Tever; and several extended family members.
A memorial service honoring David’s life was held at Leadvale Baptist Church in White Pine, Tennessee, followed by a visitation for friends, neighbors, and community members. He was laid to rest nearby at Dandridge Memorial Gardens. The Parton family publicly expressed their gratitude to Dr. David McNabney, the dedicated caregivers, and Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice for their tender care and support during his final days.
Though David chose a life far removed from the glare of Hollywood, his legacy lives on through the bridges he built across Tennessee, the family he cherished, and the enduring love of the Parton family.