Stella Parton denies family feud rumors amid nephew's security dismissal and restraining order

Stella Parton used Facebook on Thursday to address circulating rumors of a family dispute following the dismissal of her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who had served as Dolly Parton's head of security. She said families face common challenges and emphasized that the Partons are "still intact and moving forward" for the sake of their children and grandchildren.

Stella cautioned readers to be skeptical of online reports, noting that the family is acting as anyone would under similar circumstances. She also announced a celebration of Dolly Parton's life scheduled for Friday, marking one month since the singer's death.

The security change became public after TMZ reported that Seaver and his security firm were terminated on Sept. 16, ending their protection of Dolly Parton's Nashville residence and related properties. Seaver's team described the termination as unexpected and possibly made in "bad faith," asserting their continued commitment to the late singer's final directives.

Separately, Dolly Parton's longtime manager, Danny Nozell, obtained a restraining order against Seaver, alleging the former security chief threatened extortion and violence. Nozell cited messages in which Seaver purportedly referenced military-contractor experience and weapons. Seaver denied that the communications constituted threats, describing them as private, emotional exchanges made while grieving.

The restraining order bars Seaver from approaching within 1,000 feet of Dolly Parton's Nashville offices or participating in her business affairs.