Dolly Parton’s story is deeply rooted in the warmth of a sprawling family. While she’s the most famous, the country music icon is just one of twelve children born to Robert Lee and Avie Lee Parton, growing up in a rustic, one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. The family was “dirt poor” in possessions but rich in musical talent, a gift instilled by their mother for whom “singing was like breathing at home.” Life in the Parton household was a bustling, musical affair, with eleven brothers and sisters sharing in the hardships and joys of a large family.
Tragedy has touched the Parton family over the years. Dolly Parton has experienced the loss of four of her brothers. Larry Gerald passed away as an infant. Floyd Parton, Dolly’s talented songwriting partner, died in 2018. Randy Parton, an accomplished singer and actor, died after a battle with cancer in 2021. Most recently, David Parton passed away in November 2024.
You Might Like: Who Is Trevor Lawrence’s Wife? All About Marissa Mowry
The Parton Family, Oldest to Youngest
Here is the complete lineup of the Parton siblings, from firstborn to the youngest:
| Name | Birth Date | Status | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Willadeene Parton | March 24, 1940 | Alive | Author of family memoirs and cookbooks. |
| David Parton | March 30, 1942 | Deceased (2024) | Lived a private life; passed away at age 82. |
| Coy Denver Parton | August 16, 1943 | Alive | Has always lived out of the public spotlight. |
| Dolly Rebecca Parton | January 19, 1946 | Alive | The “Queen of Country” music and global icon. |
| Robert Lee “Bobby” Parton Jr. | February 18, 1948 | Alive | Prefers a private life away from show business. |
| Stella Mae Parton | May 4, 1949 | Alive | Successful singer and actress with many albums to her name. |
| Cassie Nan Parton | February 12, 1951 | Alive | Singer who has performed with her sisters at Dollywood. |
| Randel Huston “Randy” Parton | December 15, 1953 | Deceased (2021) | Musician and performer; died of cancer at 67. |
| Larry Gerald Parton | July 6, 1955 | Deceased (1955) | Died in infancy. |
| Floyd Parton | June 1, 1957 | Deceased (2018) | Songwriter who penned Dolly’s hit “Rockin’ Years.” |
| Freida Estelle Parton | June 1, 1957 | Alive | Floyd’s twin; former punk rocker, now an ordained minister. |
| Rachel Ann Parton | August 31, 1959 | Alive | Youngest sibling; actress in the “9 to 5” TV series. |
Dolly Parton’s Siblings: Where Are They Now?
Today, the living Parton siblings lead varied lives, some in the spotlight and others in cherished privacy.
The Public Figures
Several sisters have built their own careers in the public eye. Stella Parton has enjoyed a prolific music career since the 1970s and has also authored books. Cassie Parton has performed alongside her sisters over the years, including in specials like My People at Dollywood. The youngest, Rachel Parton George, who starred in the 9 to 5 TV adaptation, recently co-authored a cookbook, Good Lookin’ Cookin’, with Dolly. Freida Parton, after a stint in a punk band, is now an ordained minister.
Also See: Decision 2: Is LeBron James Retiring?
The Private Lives
The eldest, Willadeene Parton, has contributed to the family legacy through writing, authoring the memoir Smoky Mountain Memories. Dolly Parton’s brothers Coy and Robert “Bobby” Lee Jr. have consistently chosen to live away from the glare of fame, leading quiet, private lives.
This famous family, bound by music and mountain roots, continues to support one another through life’s triumphs and challenges. Just recently, Freida asked for prayers as Dolly Parton navigates some health issues, showing the close bond that has kept this remarkable family strong for decades.
