08/26/2026
Our hearts are heavy after getting the news of Dolly Parton's passing. Her quiet wedding here in 1966 before she became a global phenomenon is a treasured piece of our church's rich 186 year (and counting) history. Dolly and Carl's marriage lasted almost 60 years until his passing in 2025, and that kind of love and faithfulness is something to be celebrated. And so is Dolly's commitment to helping others. She did so much good for so many people, from her Imagination Library program promoting literacy through free books for children, her use of Dollywood to create jobs in her impoverished home area in TN, and much more. When Dolly came to Ringgold to get married, it was a destination for same-day weddings. She could have quickly and easily been married at the courthouse where she and Carl got their marriage license, but she insisted on a church wedding. We are grateful to have been the place where Dolly's faith led her to marry, and we are grateful that that same faith assures us that heaven is real and is open to all who believe in Jesus who is the resurrection and the life. We are thankful for a life well lived and for the gift of everlasting life that Jesus came to give.