Community News

Governor issues statement on the passing of Dolly Parton

 

by: CA Press Office
Published: August 26, 2026

 

SACRAMENTO...Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement on the passing of singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist Dolly Parton:

“Dolly was larger than life. She was a phenomenal talent and a prolific singer-songwriter, writing and performing songs that have become synonymous with American culture. As the best-selling female country music artist of all time, she never forgot where she came from. She took great pride in her roots, drawing on her upbringing and community to inspire her music and philanthropy. 

“The only thing bigger than her hair was her heart. She challenged the double standards women often face and supported communities of color. She was a proud and vocal ally to the LGBTQ community, including her work fighting the spread of HIV and AIDS through the Dollywood Foundation. Inspired by her father, she cared deeply about early literacy,  spreading a love of reading to millions of children around the world, including tens of thousands right here in California... 

“The world will be less sparkly without Dolly, but the joy she brought and the stories she shared will shine for generations.”