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Dolly Parton Leans on Enduring Faith Through Life’s Challenges
NASHVILLE, TN – Country music icon Dolly Parton continues to draw strength from her deep-rooted faith as she navigates recent health challenges and personal loss. The beloved superstar, known for her vibrant spirit and unwavering optimism, assures fans that her spiritual convictions remain her steadfast guide through life’s “curveballs.”
Parton has long spoken about the profound influence of her spiritual upbringing in Locust Ridge, Tennessee. In a 2018 interview, she emphasized the communal power of belief: “Everybody’s got that spiritual background.
I think that good neighbors and faith and trust in God — and in one another — help everyone pull together as a team. You’ve got to pull as a community, as a family.
That’s the only way you can keep going. A belief in God is essential.”
Her faith is visibly woven into her life and properties. Parton established a private chapel on the land she shared with her late husband, Carl Dean.
Additionally, the Robert F. Thomas Chapel, named after the doctor who delivered her, stands on the grounds of her Dollywood Parks and Resorts in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Coping with Loss: Carl Dean’s Passing
Earlier this year, Parton faced immense personal grief with the passing of Carl Dean, her husband of 59 years. She openly discussed how her faith provided solace during this difficult time.
“I am a person of faith, and I truly believe that I’m going to see him again someday,” Parton shared with the Associated Press. “And I see him every day in my memories and in my heart, and in all the things that we used to do and all the things that we’ve built together. You just kind of have to learn to kind of make new plans — but that’s the hardest part.”
Parton added, “I really feel his presence. I just try to go on, because I know I have to.
And he was ill for quite a while, and part of me was at peace that he was at peace and not suffering anymore. But that still doesn’t make up for the loss and the loneliness of it.”
Health Concerns Lead to Residency Postponement
More recently, on September 28, Parton offered fans an update on her health via social media, revealing the postponement of her highly anticipated Las Vegas residency, originally slated for later this year. She used the opportunity to reflect on her relationship with God during this ongoing health challenge.
Seeking to alleviate fan worries about her professional future at 79, Parton wrote, “Don’t worry about me quittin’ the business because God hasn’t said anything about stopping yet.” She then added a hopeful note: “But, I believe, He is telling me to slow down right now so I can be ready for more big adventures with all of you.”
Her rescheduled shows are now set for September 2026. Her representative, Olly Rowland, further clarified the situation, stating that fans should not be overly concerned about the entertainer’s health. “It’s just the kidney stones, and the procedure she needs to resolve those,” Rowland explained, noting that a social media post by Parton’s sister had inadvertently led to some exaggeration of the situation.
Through personal loss and health setbacks, Dolly Parton’s unwavering faith continues to be a guiding light, providing her with the strength and comfort to face whatever comes next.