Stella Parton has said her sister Dolly Parton remained committed to helping others until the end of her life, including being willing to try experimental treatments if they could benefit future patients. The remarks followed Dolly Parton’s death aged 80 after a brief battle with cancer, and underline the generosity and public service for which she was widely known.

In an Instagram post, Stella described their weekly Tuesday-morning coffee calls and thanked supporters for their messages. She urged people wishing to honour Parton to show kindness and give their time and resources, while tributes also came from musicians including Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and Paul McCartney. Parton’s legacy included Dollywood and the Imagination Library, which began in Sevier County, Tennessee, where she was raised.