Dolly Parton, singer, songwriter and co-owner of Branson attraction passes away

Dolly Parton, a larger-than-life entertainer has passed away at the age of 80.

Parton, according to information released from her family, passed away on August 25, following months of health concerns.

Parton, a singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, was best known for her hit songs "I Will Always Love You," "9 to 5," "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," "Here You Come Again" and more. She was often referred to as the Queen of Country Music.

Parton was known for her early work with Porter Wagoner, and later for teaming up with Kenny Rogers for the popular duet "Islands in the Stream," as well as lending her voice to many musical projects throughout the years.

As an actress, Parton has many credits to her name, including both television and film.

Parton was the famous name behind Branson's Dolly Parton Stampede, formerly the Dixie Stampede, and appeared in Branson on several occasions.  She was a co-owner in the Dolly Parton Stampede. Another venue with the same name is located in Pigeon Forge, not far from Dolly's own Tennessee theme park, Dollywood, and a third on Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Children far and wide will remember Dolly Parton as the founder of and force behind the Imagination Library, sending books to children across the United States and to several other countries, each month, free of charge.