The only person Dolly Parton allowed to be at her deathbed revealed
Country music icon Dolly Parton passed away at age 80 following a secret battle with cancer. She requested that only her makeup artist be present at her deathbed to ensure her final appearance matched her public persona.
Why it matters
As a major cultural figure, the details surrounding her private passing and final wishes are of significant public interest.
Share article There was only one person with Dolly Parton when she died.
The country music icon died at age 80 on August 25 , and the only person to see her in her final moments was Cheryl Riddle, her wig and make-up artist.
Singer Dolly Parton Performs at Agua Caliente Casino on January 24, 2014 in Rancho Mirage, California. Getty
The Jolene hitmaker’s dying wish was that no one could see her on her deathbed because she didn’t want anyone to remember her that way, sources told TMZ .
Parton allowed Riddle to be there so she could be dolled up with her signature look after she died.
According to TMZ , Parton was farewelled in an open casket ceremony, which makes sense as to why Riddle was such an important person to be there in the final moments of her life.
Also covering this story
5 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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Dolly Parton Only Wanted Longtime Wig and Makeup Artist at Her Side When She Died
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