Dolly Parton, the legendary country music icon, is grieving the loss of her beloved younger brother, Randy Parton, who passed away at the age of 67 after a courageous battle with cancer. The news came just days after Dolly’s 75th birthday, leaving a profound void in the tight-knit family. In an emotional tribute shared on Facebook, Dolly confirmed the heartbreaking loss, speaking with grace and unwavering faith.

“My brother Randy has lost his battle with cancer,” Dolly wrote. “The family and I are grieving his loss, but we know he is in a better place than we are at this time. We are a family of faith, and we believe that he is safe with God and that he is joined by members of the family that have gone on before and have welcomed him with joy and open arms.”

Randy, the eighth of the 12 Parton siblings, was more than just Dolly’s brother — he was a talented musician and performer in his own right. He played guitar and bass in Dolly’s band for many years and was a familiar face at Dollywood, where he headlined his own show since the park opened in 1986. His love for music ran deep, and his contributions to the Parton family legacy are cherished by fans worldwide.

“He was a great singer, writer, and entertainer,” Dolly shared in her tribute. “He’s had several chart records of his own, but his duet with me on ‘Old Flames Can’t Hold a Candle to You’ will always be a highlight in my career.”

One of the most personal and poignant musical memories Dolly shared was their Christmas duet, “You Are My Christmas,” which also featured Randy’s daughter, Heidi. Dolly reflected on this final recording with great affection, writing, “It was his last musical recording, and he shined on it just like he’s shining in heaven now.”

Randy’s musical legacy was felt not only through his collaborations with Dolly but also through his solo career. Born on December 15, 1953, in Sevierville, Tennessee, Randy released Top 40 country singles such as “Hold Me Like You Never Had Me” and “Shot Full of Love.” His voice, infused with the soulful resonance of Appalachia, reached listeners far beyond his hometown.

Dolly has often spoken with great affection about her family, particularly the traditions they shared. In past interviews, she fondly recalled cooking her famous holiday dumplings for her siblings, saying, “I make the best dumplings ever, ever, ever.” Now, with one less seat at the family table, the weight of this loss feels even more profound.

Randy’s passing is especially heartbreaking given that Dolly had only recently lost another sibling, Floyd, who died in 2018 at the age of 61. The grief felt by the Parton family is heavy, but their unwavering faith and closeness as a family continue to guide them through this sorrow.

In closing her tribute, Dolly shared a message of hope and love, reminding everyone that while Randy may no longer be with them in person, his light is eternal. “He’s shining in heaven now,” she said, echoing the faith and love that have always been at the core of the Parton family.

Randy is survived by his wife, Deb; daughter, Heidi; son, Sabyn; and grandsons, Huston and Trent. His memory will live on not only through his family but also through the music he created and the love he shared with his fans.

As Dolly moves forward with her career, continuing to inspire with her music and her work at Dollywood, Randy’s memory will remain a guiding light in her life. Though their time together was cut short, Dolly’s faith assures her that Randy’s spirit lives on — a spirit that continues to shine brightly, even in heaven.