Irma Thomas Remembers Dolly Parton | New Orleans News

Irma Thomas, the Soul Queen of New Orleans, shares a heartfelt memory of her brief but meaningful encounter with Dolly Parton during the 1988 Krewe of Endymion parade, where they sang together on camera at the Audubon Zoo. Thomas praises Parton’s big heart and down-to-earth nature, calling her “my neighbor,” and is stunned by her passing at 80, lamenting how the world isn’t ready to lose such kindness. She highlights Parton’s quiet generosity—especially in helping New Orleans recover from storms without seeking recognition—and admires her songwriting, calling it “written from the heart.” Thomas’s favorite Parton song? “I Will Always Love You.” This touching recollection reveals Parton not just as a legend, but as a deeply compassionate soul whose warmth left an indelible mark. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/72eae9dae821d20f