Dolly Parton‘s family announced today that she has passed away, and floods of tributes to the late iconic star have been coming in online. Among the messages is one left by Julia Quinn, the author of the books that became the huge hit series “Bridgerton”. The author praised Dolly for her work in bringing books to those who may not otherwise have access to literature, and shared how she feels utterly heartbroken.
What Did Julia Quinn Say?
Julia shared a single photo of Dolly holding up an assortment of books and grinning at the camera. Penned alongside the snap, she shared: “I am utterly heartbroken at the passing of Dolly Parton. She was truly everything that is good and kind in this world. No one worked harder, and no one gave more. Her Imagination Library put 300 MILLION books in the hands of children around the world. And her music gave us hope and love and joy.
“We will always love you, Dolly.”
The Imagination Library is a program Dolly set up that mails free age-appropriate books to children from the time they are born up until their fifth birthday. Children enrolled in the program receive one new book each month delivered to their family home and it’s free for families to join due to being funded through The Dollywood Foundation and a mix of local community orgnaizations, charities and/or government sponsors.
Dolly’s Passing
Dolly Parton’s family posted a video message to her social media profiles today announcing that she had passed away. Bryan Seaver read out the tragic news, speaking to a camera. He shared: “Hey everyone, my name is Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I am representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean.
“Sister, sis, aunt, granny to one generation, and Gigi to the next. This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, but not with Dolly.
“Dolly has lived in the light […] met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens. […] Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life , and across every continent. By her example, we believed that anything was possible.
“She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history. My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you. She has always been on your television, your record player, your CD, and your phone playlist becoming an extended part of your family.”
Rest in peace to Dolly Parton and best wishes to her loved ones.
