Dolly Parton’s brother David Wilburn dies as his sister pays emotional tribute

DOLLY Parton’s brother David Wilburn Parton has died.

The sad news was announced by Dolly’s sister Stella, when she posted a statement saying he was ‘now at peace’.

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She wrote on X: “My brother David passed away peacefully this morning. It is never easy to say goodbye to a loved one, but he has been given his angel wings and is now at peace.”

Born in Sevier County, Tennessee, David was one of twelve children of Robert and Avie Lee Parton.

Fans were heartbroken by the news, as one person wrote: “Stella. I’m so sorry for your loss. My condolences. Sending prayers to you and your family and loved ones!”

Someone else wrote: “I hold you and your entire family in the light. I recently lost my eldest sister and she too passed away peacefully and I was so grateful; She lived a long and full life.”

Growing up near the Smoky Mountains in Sevier County, Tennessee, Dolly and her family had virtually nothing.

In order of birth, the six boys and six girls were named Willadeene, David Wilburn, Coy Denver, Dolly Rebecca, Bobby Lee, Stella Mae, Cassie Nan, Randel Huston “Randy,” Larry Gerald, twins Floyd Estel and Freida Estelle, and youngest Rachel Ann.

Eldest brother David was born on March 30, 1942, while Coy was born a year later on August 16, 1943.

None of them pursued a career in showbiz, so very little is known about them, but Dolly once referred to one of her brothers as a carpenter.

Stella, who announced the news of David’s death, is a singer born on May 4, 1949.

She is three years younger than her sister Dolly and sixth born in the family.

Her biggest hit is I Want To Hold You In My Dreams, from 1975.

Other top 20 country music hits include The Danger of a Stranger, Standard Lie Number One and Four Little Letters.

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