Queer community mourns passing of Dolly Parton, an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights

WILTON MANORS, Fla. — Dolly Parton was a lifelong ally of the LGBTQ+ community.

Following the global star’s passing, members of South Florida’s LGBTQ community are both mourning her death and looking back to honor her incredible career.

Read more ‘Honeybun Boyz’ fraud ring stole millions from victims, feds say

“I am not gay, but if I were I would be the first one running out of the closet,” Parton said.

While Parton may have steered away from politics and controversy, she always spoke up for her queer fans, telling the Hollywood Reporter in 2023, “I have some of everybody in my own immediate family and in my circle of employees. I’ve got transgender people. I’ve got gays. I’ve got lesbians.”

That’s why for people like Marcy Miller, the loss is so painful.

“Because she represents hope and love and joy and the sparkle that’s missing a lot,” said Miller.

Read more Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library inspires a love of reading in South Florida kids

Miller’s home is filled with Dolly Parton gear, honoring the sparkly country music star as a tribute to a legacy of love and inclusion.

“She can be Christian and still stand for the trans community, the LGBT community,” said Miller.

Read more Sal Veder, Pulitzer Prize-winning AP photographer who shot iconic ‘Burst of Joy,’ dies at age 99