Dolly Parton, the beloved country music icon, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 80 after battling cancer. Throughout her life and in her final days, Parton remained a beacon of optimism, largely attributing this unwavering positivity to her deep Christian faith, according to sources close to her.
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In a heartfelt reflection, an individual who knew Parton shared that she approached each day as an opportunity for work. “As long as God hadn’t called her home, she felt she had more to do,” the source disclosed, highlighting Parton’s steadfast commitment to her faith and her craft. This mindset was intricately tied to her upbringing, as her grandfather was a preacher, instilling in her a lifelong dedication to her spiritual beliefs.
Alluding to her health struggles, Parton had previously communicated the challenges she faced while caring for her late husband, Carl Dean. Just days before her passing, she expressed to PEOPLE that despite her health concerns, she was determined to keep pursuing her dreams. “I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’! I still have so many things I want to achieve,” she said.
The source emphasized how deeply rooted her positive outlook was in her Christian faith. “From the moment she was born, she was surrounded by faith and the teachings of Jesus,” they noted. This foundation shaped her belief in the notion that life’s outcomes are not solely dictated by doctors or the immediate circumstances; rather, she held steadfast that “it’s not over until God says it’s over.”
Parton’s approach towards life and health was influenced by her Pentecostal upbringing. The source elaborated that within the Pentecostal tradition, there’s a belief in the power of the tongue, suggesting that the words one speaks can shape their reality. “I believe she thought as a Christian, I’m going to speak faith and abundance, and I’m not going to speak death,” they said, capturing her intent to focus on life’s positive aspects.
As she faced the hardships that come with illness, Parton consistently turned to prayer, which she described as her “salvation.” She remarked in 2020, “It helps me through everything,” indicating that faith was an integral part of her identity and coping mechanism during difficult times. Parton often wore her emotions on her sleeve, believing that her writing and music were deeply personal reflections of her experiences.
Beyond her faith, Parton’s philanthropic spirit was also notable. “She knew she was blessed, and the Bible says, ‘To whom much is given, much is required,'” shared the source. This philosophy guided her extensive charitable efforts, which included generous donations to her community and initiatives aimed at education and literacy. For instance, she famously provided new football equipment and uniforms to her former high school, illustrating her commitment to giving back.
In a poignant interview last year, Parton spoke about receiving guidance from God, describing it as feelings and intuition rather than specific words. “I feel like I have a mission or possibly my ministry,” she shared, indicating her belief that her work was divinely inspired. She expressed a commitment to continue her creative pursuits until she sensed that it was time to stop, displaying an unyielding passion for her craft.
As fans, friends, and family mourn the loss of one of music’s most cherished figures, her legacy of optimism, faith, and generosity will undoubtedly endure. Dolly Parton will be remembered not just for her remarkable talent but for the profound love and light she brought to the lives of those around her. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of faith and the importance of living life with purpose and positivity.