4. Dolly Parton (1946–2026) – Country Music Icon & National Treasure

Few entertainers are as universally adored as Dolly Parton. With over 50 years in the spotlight, she’s written more than 3,000 songs—including timeless classics like Jolene and I Will Always Love You. But her legacy goes far beyond country music.

Into her late 70s she kept touring, recording, and even dabbling in rock (her 2023 Rockstar album featured duets with Paul McCartney and Stevie Nicks). She also led a major philanthropy effort: her Imagination Library has donated over 200 million books to children around the world. Dolly died in August 2026 at 80.