The venue where Dolly Parton performed during her most recent Mississippi concert has released a statement following the country music icon’s death.
The Congress of Country Music, home to the Ellis Theater, in Philadelphia offered its condolences while remembering Parton as the “brightest sparkle in country music.”
Parton, who died Tuesday at age 80, performed a pair of benefit concerts at the Ellis Theater on Aug. 26, 2023. She took the stage to help raise money for her friend and local Grammy-winning artist Marty Stuart’s project to preserve the history of country music through a museum, performing arts center, and the theater itself.
“The Congress of Country Music would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and fans of the brightest sparkle in country music, Dolly Parton,” the statement said. “Dolly gave of herself, both professionally and personally, in every endeavor she undertook. From the memorable hit songs that crossed the bounds of country music to an acting career that came as naturally as her sweet southern draw, she brought the world together, for better as only as she could.
“Three years ago [Aug. 26], The Congress of Country Music benefited greatly from the concert she performed inside our hallowed walls in Philadelphia, Mississippi. She did it out of her love for Marty and Connie, with a smile on her face and a song in her heart to help support the cause of preserving the history of country music. We Will Always Love You, Dolly.”
Parton died in Nashville following what her team and family described as a “brief battle with cancer.”
Best known for hits including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You,” as well as her iconic blonde wigs, skin-tight outfits, and infectious personality, Parton spent decades as one of the entertainment industry’s most beloved figures.
The Congress of Country Music is not the only place in Mississippi honoring Parton’s life and legacy. Gov. Tate Reeves has ordered flags at all public buildings and grounds statewide to fly at half-staff in her memory.