US Catholic Diocese pays tribute to Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton died yesterday at the age of 80, leaving behind millions of grieving fans whose lives were touched by her extraordinary music and the legendary ways she shared her faith and God's love with others.

Her nephew Bryan Seaver, shared in the family's official announcement: "Dolly has lived in the light, and is in the arms of Jesus… May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you. She will always love you."

The Catholic Diocese of Knoxville wrote:

The Diocese of Knoxville joins the people of East Tennessee and countless admirers around the world in mourning the passing of Dolly Parton on August 25. She was a daughter of Sevier County, and her life carried the spirit of our mountain home far beyond the Smokies.

Dolly was born and raised in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. She first sang in a small Pentecostal church, long before the world knew her name. She never hid her faith. It showed up in the hymns she recorded across six decades, in how openly she talked about God, and in the millions of free books her Imagination Library has placed in children's hands.

As Catholics, we entrust her to the mercy of Almighty God. We pray that Jesus, who is the resurrection and the life, will receive her into His eternal kingdom. We also pray for her family, friends, colleagues, and all who grieve her loss. May the Holy Spirit bring them consolation in this time of sorrow.

East Tennessee knew Dolly Parton as more than a world-famous star. We knew her as one of our own. She was shaped by these hills and these churches. Her life shows what can grow from faith, perseverance, imagination, and love for one's neighbours - even from humble beginnings.

"I am very sorry to hear of her passing, and I am praying for those who are mourning her loss," said Bishop Mark Beckman. "She made a wonderful contribution to our world and our community, and she will be greatly missed."

May God grant her eternal rest. May perpetual light shine upon her. And may all who mourn find comfort in the words of Christ, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."