Dolly Parton wanted to be laid to rest surrounded by her nearest and dearest.
And her loved ones plan to honor the country music legend’s wishes in the wake of her death at 80. As they shared in an Aug. 25 statement detailing funeral arrangements, “At Dolly’s request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family.”
However, her family went on to detail the ways they can honor Parton’s memory.
“Dolly’s fans and friends from around the world are encouraged to pay tribute to Dolly on social media by tagging @DollyParton or by leaving a message at www.dollyparton.com,” the statement continued. “In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.”
Indeed, the Imagination Library—a reading program founded by Parton in 1995 that provides free books to children—was a cause close to the “9 to 5” singer’s heart. In fact, she considered her work as “the book lady” more important than her musical legacy.