‘Joy, warmth and generosity:’ Conagra Brands remembers Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton, who died at 80 on Tuesday (Aug. 25), is remembered by Conagra Brands for bringing her signature southern charm to Duncan Hines. 

“Dolly brought joy, warmth and generosity to everything she touched. We were incredibly fortunate to experience that firsthand through our partnership with her,” the company said. “We are proud of what we created together and even more grateful to have known and worked with such an extraordinary person. Our hearts are with Dolly’s family, friends and the millions around the world who loved her. Her remarkable legacy—and the joy she brought to so many—will live on.”

Inspired by some of Parton’s favourite family recipes—like Coconut Cake and Banana Puddin’ Cake—Parton’s line of Duncan Hines cake mixes and frosting launched in the U.S. in 2022.

"I have always loved to cook and, growing up in the south, I especially love that authentic Mom and Pop kind of cooking," Parton said in a press release at the time. 

The collection was a hit, and Conagra expanded the lineup to a variety of items also inspired by Parton’s southern roots, including Dolly Parton's Biscuit Batter Peach Cobbler. 

In 2024, Parton inked an exclusive agreement with Conagra brands to develop a line of food retail items, including frozen, refrigerated, grocery and snack items. 

That agreement came to fruition the following year with the launch of Parton’s single-serve frozen meals: Beef Pot Roast, Chicken & Dumplings, Country Fried Steak and Shrimp & Grits.

"I've always believed in the power of a warm, hearty meal,” Parton said in a press release for the launch. 

Watch a clip below where Parton “shopped” her collection in a grocery store.