The Salvation Army Mourns Dolly Parton, Recalls Her Years of Support

The Salvation Army has joined millions of people around the world in mourning the passing of Dolly Parton. The organization described her as a beloved artist, a treasured friend of The Salvation Army and a woman whose deep faith was reflected in the way she loved and served others.

The organization said its connection with Parton began long before she helped launch the Red Kettle Campaign in 2023 on the field at AT&T Stadium. At 18, newly arrived in Nashville and unable to afford a trip home for Christmas, she found her way to The Salvation Army and served meals to others, which the statement said brought her comfort and community during a Christmas when she needed both. Caring for others in their hardest seasons, even when one’s own needs are pressing (Matthew 25:35).

Years later, the statement said, she returned that kindness many times over. It cited one of the most iconic halftime performances in the 30-year history of the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day halftime show, which kicks off the national Red Kettle Campaign. The organization also said she encouraged others to open their hearts to neighbors in need and supported millions of families through her own generous donations.

The statement quoted Parton as saying she grew up believing that other people were just as important as she was. It said that, in a life of extraordinary success, she never seemed to forget it. The organization also pointed to a teaching of Jesus about loving one another as an example reflected in her life.

The Salvation Army said it was profoundly grateful that Parton chose to share some of that love with the organization and the people it serves. It said it prayed for comfort for her family, her friends and the millions of people whose lives she touched.

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