Dolly Parton Siblings: From the Mountains to Stardom.!!!
Dolly Parton is a legend in the country music industry and beyond.
She has sold over 100 million records worldwide, won countless awards, starred in movies and TV shows, and donated millions to various causes.
But did you know that she is also one of 12 siblings?
Yes, you read that right. Dolly Parton has 11 brothers and sisters, who have their own stories and achievements.
In this blog post, we will introduce you to the Parton family and explore their lives and careers.
Now let’s dive in and know more about: “Dolly Parton Siblings”
The Early Years
Born on January 19, 1946, in Sevierville, Tennessee, to parents Robert and Avie Lee Parton, Dolly Parton emerged as the fourth child among her 11 siblings.
Growing up in a financially modest yet musically rich environment, her parents, despite facing financial challenges as farmers, always fostered a love for music among their children.
Encouraged to sing and play instruments from a young age, Dolly started showcasing her talents on local radio and TV shows at the tender age of 10.
After completing high school, she made her way to Nashville, where she quickly rose to prominence as a successful songwriter and singer.
However, the Parton family wasn’t just about Dolly’s success – her siblings, too, inherited the musical gift.
Some followed her into the entertainment industry, while others pursued different paths.
Despite choosing diverse careers, Dolly Parton Siblings maintained a strong bond, providing unwavering support to each other throughout their journeys.
Meet the Parton Siblings
- Willadeene (March 24, 1940): The eldest sibling, paving the way for those to come.
- David (March 30, 1942): Carrying the family’s musical legacy forward with his unique talents.
- Coy (August 16, 1943): Adding his own flavor to the family’s musical tapestry.
- Dolly (January 19, 1946): The iconic figure and fourth child, leaving an indelible mark in the music industry.
- Bobby (February 18, 1948): Contributing to the family’s musical heritage.
- Stella (May 4, 1949): Venturing into the entertainment industry alongside her renowned sister.
- Cassie (July 13, 1951): Carving her own path with individual achievements.
- Randy (December 15, 1953): Bringing his unique talents into the Parton family mix.
- Larry (July 6, 1955 – July 10, 1955): Though brief, his presence left an impact on the family.
- Floyd (June 1, 1957): Continuing the Parton musical tradition.
- Freida and Rachel (August 26, 1959): The youngest members, contributing to the family’s diverse tapestry.
The Parton siblings, with their varied paths and talents, collectively reflect a journey from humble beginnings in the mountains to achieving stardom.
Siblings’ Names and Background
Embarking on a journey into the lives of each Parton sibling unveils a tapestry of diverse backgrounds and accomplishments.
Let’s know more about Dolly Parton Siblings here:
- Willadeene
As the eldest sibling, Willadeene assumed a nurturing role for her younger brothers and sisters when their parents were occupied.
Serving as a maternal figure, she became a source of inspiration for Dolly.
While briefly venturing into music as part of a gospel group with her sisters, Willadeene discovered her true passion in writing.
Her book, “In the Shadow of a Song: The Parton Family,” chronicles the triumphs and struggles of their family.
Making appearances on TV shows like The Oprah Winfrey Show, she shared her compelling story.
- David
The second oldest and the first son, David, chose a more private life away from the spotlight.
Engaging in a humble existence as a carpenter and farmer, he contributed to the family business.
Devoted to Dolly, he often accompanied her to events, adding a supportive presence to her journey.
- Coy
Coy, the third oldest and second son, maintained a mysterious aura, keeping details about his life and career under wraps.
Reportedly working as a mechanic and truck driver, he resided in a trailer near his parents’ home, rarely making public appearances and maintaining a low profile.
- Dolly
Dolly, the fourth oldest, stands as the most renowned Parton sibling, a multifaceted personality excelling as a singer, songwriter, actress, philanthropist, and businesswoman.
With a global footprint, she boasts a remarkable career with over 60 albums and 3,000 songs, including classics like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.”
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Beyond her musical achievements, Dolly has left an indelible mark on the film industry, starring in movies like The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and contributing to TV shows such as:
Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings. Additionally, her philanthropic endeavors, notably the Imagination Library, reflect her commitment to causes such as education, health, and the arts.
- Bobby
Occupying the fifth position, Bobby showcases his musical talents as a guitarist and singer.
Collaborating with Dolly and other siblings, he has not only shared the stage but also contributed as a songwriter for artists like Ricky Skaggs and George Jones.
His prowess extends to production, having worked on some of Dolly’s albums and TV specials.
- Stella
Stella, the sixth sibling and third daughter, stands out as a singer and songwriter with a catalog of over 30 albums.
Known for hits like “I Want to Hold You in My Dreams Tonight,” she ventured into acting, gracing TV shows like The Dukes of Hazzard and movies like The Hunger Games.
Stella also wears the hat of an author, having penned a memoir titled “Tell It Sister, Tell It,” and a cookbook named “State Fairs and Church Bazaars.”
- Cassie: A Harmonious Soul
Cassie, the seventh in line and the fourth daughter of the Parton clan, adds her melodic touch to the family tapestry.
Engaged in gospel music, she collaborated with her sisters and later formed The Parton Sisters duo alongside her sister Freida.
Cassie’s harmonious voice resonates not only on stage with Dolly and other siblings but also on television, gracing shows like Hee Haw and The Mike Douglas Show.
- Randy: A Musical Craftsman and More
Randy, the eighth sibling and fourth son, doesn’t just carry the family name; he carves his musical path.
With albums and singles like “Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler),” “Shot Full of Love,” and “Hold Me Like You Never Had Me,” Randy’s voice echoes alongside Dolly and other siblings in numerous performances.
Beyond music, he wears a businessman hat, steering a construction company and a sand and gravel venture.
His multifaceted journey includes appearances on TV shows like Dolly and Nashville Now.
- Larry: A Bittersweet Memory
Larry, the ninth in line and the fifth son, left an indelible mark despite his brief stay.
Born on July 6, 1955, his life was cut short four days later due to a heart defect.
A heart-wrenching loss for the family, Larry found his resting place in the Parton family cemetery.
Dolly, in her grief, crafted a song titled “My Angel Baby,” a poignant tribute that echoed through the air at his funeral.
- Floyd: Crafting Musical Harmony
Floyd, the tenth sibling and sixth son, brings musical harmony to the Parton legacy.
His songwriting prowess extended beyond family ties, contributing to hits like “Rockin’ Years,” a chart-topper for both Dolly and Ricky Van Shelton.
Floyd’s musical journey intertwines with family performances on shows such as Dolly and The Porter Wagoner Show.
- Freida and Rachel: Twin Talents
Freida and Rachel, the youngest and only twins in the Parton ensemble, share a unique bond and individual artistic journeys.
Born on August 26, 1959, they ventured into the entertainment realm.
Freida, a singer and songwriter, joined forces with Cassie in The Parton Sisters and later fronted Freida Parton and the Heaters, releasing the album Two-Faced.
Freida’s voice resonates alongside Dolly and other siblings on shows like Dolly and The New Hollywood Squares.
Rachel, a singer and actress, etched her mark with albums and singles like;
“Old Flames Can’t Hold a Candle to You” and “Change,” as well as appearances in movies and TV shows such as 9 to 5 and Sabrina, the Teenage Witch.
Rachel’s production skills shine through projects like Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings and Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square.
Personal Journeys of the Parton Siblings
Beyond the spotlight and family ties, the Dolly Parton Siblings have woven intricate personal lives, marked by marriages, divorces, joys, and hardships.
They have encountered the tapestry of life, from the highs of childbirth and marriage to the lows of health struggles and tragic losses.
Despite facing adversities, they’ve emerged resilient, finding solace and joy.
- Willadeene
In 1959, Willadeene married John Paul Owens, with whom she had two children, John and Donna.
After a divorce, she found love again with James Rauhuff in 1974. Now residing in Sevierville, Tennessee, she cherishes her four grandchildren.
- David
David’s journey led him to marry Dorothy Jo Owens in 1962, with whom he had two children, David Jr. and Teresa.
A divorce paved the way for a new chapter with Kay Owens in 1984.
Today, he enjoys the company of four grandchildren in Nashville, Tennessee.
- Coy
Coy’s life unfolded with a marriage to Dorothy Bonnett in 1965, resulting in two children, Kevin and Bryan.
After a divorce, he found love again with Sandy Bonnett in 1988.
Residing in Sevierville, Tennessee, he shares his life with four grandchildren.
- Dolly
Dolly embarked on a lifelong journey with Carl Dean, whom she married in 1966.
While they don’t have children of their own, their home is filled with the laughter of nieces, nephews, and godchildren.
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From Brentwood, Tennessee, to Los Angeles and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, they share their love with an extended family of devoted fans.
- Bobby
Bobby’s path included a marriage to Sandy Owens in 1969, resulting in two children, Bobby Jr. and Jennifer.
Moreover, after a divorce, a new chapter began with Lisa Owens in 1991. Nashville, Tennessee, is where he finds joy with his four grandchildren.
- Stella
Stella’s journey of love led to multiple marriages, starting with:
Marvin Carroll Rauhuff in 1967, followed by Kin Vassy in 1973, George Holcomb in 1976, Allen Messick in 1981, Mark Davis in 1984, James Crawford in 1992, and Mike Dowling in 2001.
Residing in Nashville, Tennessee, she embraces the joy brought by her four grandchildren.
- Cassie
Cassie’s path included a marriage to Greg Griffith in 1971, with whom she had two children, Gregory and Heidi.
Following a divorce, Todd Meade became her partner in 1986. Sevierville, Tennessee, is where she finds happiness with her four grandchildren.
- Randy
Randy’s journey of love began with Deb Parton in 1974, resulting in two children, Heidi and Sabyn.
It’s worth to note that after a divorce, Connie Parton became his life partner in 1989.
Today, he enjoys the company of four grandchildren in Sevierville, Tennessee.
- Floyd
Floyd’s life unfolded with a marriage to Kathy Parton in 1978, resulting in two children, Danielle and Cory.
After a divorce, Karen Parton became his life partner in 1993. Nashville, Tennessee, is where he cherishes the presence of his four grandchildren.
- Freida
Freida’s journey of love led to marriage with William Phillips in 1978, resulting in one child, Danielle.
Notably, after divorces and new beginnings, she now resides in Nashville, Tennessee, savoring the joy brought by her grandchild.
- Rachel
Rachel’s path included marriage to Richard Dennison in 1981, with whom she had two children, Hannah and Rebecca.
Following a divorce, Eric George became her life partner in 1996. Brentwood, Tennessee, is where she finds happiness with her two grandchildren.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dolly Parton
Q: How many of Dolly Parton’s siblings are still alive?
A: As of 2024, 10 of Dolly Parton’s siblings are still alive. The only one who passed away was Larry, who died shortly after birth in 1955.
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