Coy “Denver” Parton, one of Dolly Parton’s 11 siblings, died Thursday, July 23, at the age of 82.
Atchley Funeral Home published an obituary confirming his passing, though no cause of death was given. Born August 16, 1943, Denver Parton lived most of his life in Sevierville, Tennessee, working as a crane operator on bridge construction projects. He was also a homestead farmer and an avid hunter who, by all accounts, deliberately stayed out of the public eye throughout his life.
A Private Man From a Storied Family
Denver was one of twelve Parton children. He is survived by daughters Chris and Jennifer, grandson Ian Parton, brother Bobby Parton, and sisters Willadeene, Dolly, Stella, Cassie, Freida, and Rachel. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Avie Lee Parton, and by brothers Larry, David, Randy, and Floyd Parton.
His sister Stella Parton addressed the news in a brief statement to People. “My brother Denver was a deeply private person,” she said. “I appreciate the kind messages and expressions of condolences on behalf of my nieces Chris and Jennifer, and the rest of my family.” A private service is planned for a later date, according to the obituary.
A Family Marked by Recent Loss
Denver’s death adds to a painful stretch of grief for the Parton family. Brother Floyd Parton died in 2018, Randy Parton in 2021, and David Parton in 2024. Dolly’s husband, Carl Dean, also died in March at age 82. Denver spent his decades in East Tennessee largely removed from the country music world that elevated his younger sister to iconic status — a choice that reflected the quietly independent character his family described.
With the Parton family having faced repeated losses in a short span of years, Denver’s passing marks another significant chapter for one of country music’s most celebrated families.
