Dolly Parton's brother David Wilburn dies as their sister says 'he's now at peace'

Dolly Parton's brother David Wilburn Parton has died aged 82.

Their sister Stella shared the sad news in a social media post on Friday morning, in which she said he was "now at peace". He was one of 12 siblings born to their parents Robert and Avie Lee Parton in Sevier County, Tennessee.

She wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "My brother David passed away peacefully this morning. It’s never easy to say goodbye to a loved one, but he got his angel wings and is now at peace."

Heartbroken fans sent their condolences, with one writing: "Holding you and all your family in the light. I recently lost my oldest sister and she too passed peacefully and I was so grateful; she lived long and full life." While another commented: "Stella. I’m so sorry for your loss. Condolences. Sending prayers to you and your family and loved ones!" A third wrote: "So sorry for your loss, and how lucky he was to have two amazing sisters.

David had been the eldest brother, two years younger than their eldest sister Willadeene. Following - in order - are Coy Denver, Dolly Rebecca, Bobby Lee, Stella Mae, Cassie Nan, Randel Huston 'Randy,' Larry Gerald, twins Estel Floyd and Freida Estelle, and Rachel Ann.

He had led a private life away from the of showbiz and is survived by his wife of 45 years Kay Parton, his nephew/ son Lucas Townsend, daughters, Donna Parton, Dena (Tommy) Lane, grandsons, Jordan Bell, Jared Bell, Brody Lane, Randy Lane, and Taylor Lane, great-grandchildren, Shadow and Shayde Bell and Ellie Lane, as well as his siblings.

According to his obituary, he had retired from Simpson Construction as a bridge builder superintendent and had worked on many of the bridges in the Kingsport, Johnson City, and Knoxville areas. It added: "The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. David McNabney, Smoky Mountain Home Health & Hospice, his Cornerstone caregiver, Aubrie Smith & caregiver, Robin Schmidt."

A funeral will be held for David on Tuesday and the family has asked for memorial donations to be made to the Baptist Church in lieu of flowers.

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