Dolly Parton was one of the entertainers who brought me the most joy throughout my lifetime. But what I admired most about her went far beyond her remarkable music and talent.
To me, Dolly represented the best of the American spirit: caring, humble, generous, hard-working, professional, grounded in common sense and respectful of others.
At a time when our country often seems defined by anger and division, Dolly reminded us of another America — one where people can disagree and still respect one another, one where success doesn’t require arrogance, kindness isn’t weakness and helping others is simply the right thing to do.
She became one of the world’s biggest stars without appearing to forget where she came from. She used that success to help others, including giving millions of books to children through her Imagination Library.
She was also married to Carl Dean for nearly 59 years before his death last year — a remarkable testament to commitment, particularly in the entertainment world.
Dolly demonstrated something worth remembering: success, humility, common sense, kindness and generosity can coexist.
Dolly Parton represented an America I still believe in. Thank you for the music, the laughter, the kindness and, most importantly, the example. You will be missed.
