by NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The legendary country artist died Aug. 25 at age 80, surrounded by family and friends. Beloved by fans around the U.S. and beyond, she sold more than 100 million records and won 11 Grammy Awards over her 60-year career, according to NBC News. The author of some 3,000 songs, including Coat of Many Colors, Jolene and I Will Always Love You — an ode to her longtime performing partner Porter Wagoner — she also was known as a philanthropist who supported education and poverty relief through the Dollywood Foundation. Through her library program, she is said to have donated more than 300 million books to children all over the world, promoting both literacy and a love of reading. For more on her life, career and generous spirit, click here.
