Dolly Parton's Longtime Producer Sam Haskell Reflects on 44-Year Friendship: "She Made People Feel Seen"

Producer Sam Haskell is reflecting on his 44-year personal and professional relationship with the late Dolly Parton. The country legend died at age 80 after a "brief battle with cancer" on August 25. Now, Haskell, president of Magnolia Hill Productions at Warner Brothers Discovery, is sharing memories of his time working with Parton on 12 films in a statement shared exclusively with PEOPLE.

"In 1982, I walked into the International Ballroom at the Beverly Hilton Hotel and was surprised to find the beautiful Dolly Parton in a red sequined dress, patiently waiting to rehearse her classic song '9 to 5' for that year's Golden Globe Awards," begins Haskell, 71. "I sat beside her and introduced myself. Neither of us could have known that one conversation would begin forty-four years of friendship and a creative partnership that became one of the greatest blessings of my life."

A Creative Partnership

Together, Parton and Haskell worked on many of the "Jolene" singer's TV films, including 2015's Coat of Many Colors, 2016's Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love, 2020's Christmas on the Square, 2022's Mountain Magic Christmas, and more. They also worked on Parton's 2019 Netflix anthology series, Heartstrings.

Christmas on the Square scored two Emmy Awards for TV Movie of the Year and Best Choreography. The former win provided Parton and Haskell with trophies for their roles as executive producers, while the latter went to the film's director and choreographer, Debbie Allen. The success of their collaborations reflects the trust and creative synergy they shared, as well as their shared commitment to storytelling that resonates with audiences.

A Woman of Faith and Generosity

"The world knew Dolly as an incomparable artist, songwriter, businesswoman, and humanitarian," continues Haskell's statement. "I knew a woman of profound faith, dazzling humor, extraordinary integrity and boundless generosity. She made people feel seen. She never forgot where she came from, and she used every gift God gave her to lift others."

Haskell's words capture the essence of Parton's character. Her faith was central to her identity, and her generosity was legendary. She used her platform to support countless causes, from children's literacy to disaster relief, and she never hesitated to help those in need. Her humor and warmth made her a joy to work with, and her integrity earned her the respect of everyone who knew her.

A Lasting Legacy

"I have often said that Dolly was beloved by the world because she loved the world back. Today, those words carry a weight I never imagined. Her songs will be sung for generations, her stories will continue to gather families, and every child who discovers a book through her Imagination Library is part of her living legacy," Haskell continues.

"Dolly was not simply my friend and producing partner," says Haskell. "She was part of our family. She loved our daughter, Mary Lane, and our grandchildren, Sam, James, and William. The love they shared with her is among the most precious gifts our family will ever know."

"My wife Mary and I are heartbroken. We hold Dolly's family and all who loved her in our prayers," he adds, before turning his attention to Parton directly. "Dolly, I will always love you. Our family will always love you. And because you shared your beautiful light so generously with all of us, the world will always love you."

A Life Remembered

News of Parton's death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, on August 25. Reps for the "Jolene" singer told PEOPLE she died after a "brief battle with cancer" in a statement later that day. The type of cancer was not disclosed.

"Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope, and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand," read the statement from Parton's reps. "Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly's unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact. After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, surrounded by loved ones."

Haskell's tribute is a testament to the profound impact Parton had on those who knew her personally. Their 44-year partnership was built on mutual respect, shared values, and a deep love for storytelling. Through their work together, they brought joy to millions and created a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire.

As Haskell and his family mourn her loss, they also celebrate the gift of knowing her. Parton's light may have dimmed, but her influence will continue to shine through her music, her philanthropy, and the countless lives she touched.