Dolly Parton Remembered Through Five Decades of Candid Words

Dolly Parton was a famous singer, songwriter, performer and businesswoman.

She died Tuesday at age 80.

For nearly 50 years, she spoke with Associated Press reporters about her life and career.

Parton said she always expected to become famous, but she did not originally plan to act in movies.

She helped create Dollywood to celebrate the Smoky Mountains and support jobs in her region.

She often spoke lovingly about her husband, Carl Dean, and said her faith helped her after his death.

She also supported charities by helping people when she saw a need.

Parton said she never wanted to retire because she loved working.

She hoped people would remember her songs and the good things she did.