Dolly Parton's brother, Floyd Estel Parton, has died at the age of 61. Floyd was not only Dolly's youngest brother, but also her longtime songwriting partner.

According to his obituary posted on the Atchley Funeral Home's website, the Sevierville, Tennessee, resident died Thursday, December 6, 2018.

"A renaissance man, Floyd was a man of many talents and areas of knowledge," the obituary reads. "He was an avid outdoorsman and had an abundant knowledge of nature as well as being an incredible cook."

Like his older sister, Floyd was also quite musical. The siblings collaborated in writing several songs over Dolly's decades-long career. Floyd famously wrote her hit "Rockin' Years" from the album Eagle When She Flies, and co-wrote "Nickels and Dimes" from Heartbreaker with his sister.

"Singing was like breathing at home," Dolly and Floyd's sister Rachel told People in 1982.

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Floyd is survived by his siblings, including Dolly, Willadeene Parton, David Parton, Coy Denver Parton, Robert (Bobby) Parton, Stella Parton, Cassie Griffith, Randy Parton, Freida Parton, Rachel George, and their respective spouses and children. Another brother, Larry, died just days after his birth in 1955.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to My People Senior Activity Center in Floyd's hometown. A private service has already been held for his relatives, but online condolences can be left here.

Headshot of Taysha Murtaugh
Taysha Murtaugh
Lifestyle Editor

Taysha Murtaugh was the Lifestyle Editor at CountryLiving.com.