The Salvation Army Joins Millions Around the World in Mourning the Passing of Dolly Parton

The Salvation Army joins millions around the world in mourning the passing of Dolly Parton, a beloved artist, a treasured friend to The Salvation Army and, above all, a woman whose deep faith was reflected in the way she loved and served others.

Long before Dolly stood on the field at AT&T Stadium to help us launch the Red Kettle Campaign in 2023, The Salvation Army held a special place in her life of caring for others. At 18 years old, newly arrived in Nashville and unable to afford a trip home for Christmas, Dolly found her way to The Salvation Army and served meals to others, bringing her comfort and community during a Christmas when she needed both.

Years later, she returned that kindness many times over. Dolly gave us 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. She didn’t just encourage others to open their hearts to neighbors in need, supported millions of families through her own generous donations. 

Dolly once said she grew up believing that other people were just as important as she was. In a life filled with extraordinary success, she never seemed to forget it. Her example reminds us of the words of Jesus: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” — John 13:34

We are profoundly grateful that Dolly chose to share some of that love with The Salvation Army and the people we serve. We pray for comfort for her family, friends and the millions of people whose lives she touched.