Tennessee Mourns the Loss of Dolly Parton
Tennessee Today
(dollyparton.com)
On Tuesday, country music legend and Tennessee philanthropist Dolly Parton passed away peacefully in Nashville at 80 years of age, following a battle with cancer. Known for her ability to bridge divides, bringing people together through both her classic hits and charitable work, including the Imagination Library, Dolly Parton was one of Tennessee’s most beloved icons.
Tennesseans all across the state are honoring Dolly’s legacy.
Following the announcement of Dolly’s passing, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor her memory. In a separate statement on X, Gov. Lee spoke to Dolly’s character and impact on the Volunteer State: “Rare is the one who climbs to the pinnacle of fame, then scoffs at its allure, only to retain the genuine humility that defines them. Dolly Parton was one of a kind, who loved people, her work, her family, and her Lord. Tennessee has forever been changed – enhanced – by her, and will never be quite the same without Dolly.”
(X/@GovBillLee)
In Sevier County, where Dolly was raised, the County Courthouse will toll its historic bell at noon for 5 minutes, which will be observed alongside a moment of silence.
Leaders took to social media to honor Dolly’s passing.
Senator Marsha Blackburn wrote in tribute, “Chuck and I are absolutely heartbroken and saddened to hear of the passing of our friend, Dolly Parton. Dolly’s life and career are forever woven into Tennessee’s music, culture, and history. Her extraordinary talent, generosity, and love for the Volunteer State touched hearts around the world and will continue to inspire generations to come. Tennessee will forever be grateful for Dolly. Our prayers are with her family and the millions around the globe mourning this tremendous loss.”
On X, Senator Bill Hagerty stated, “Dolly was talented beyond compare, and an entrepreneurial juggernaut who played an integral role in transforming our state. She brought laughter and joy to so many through her musical and philanthropic endeavors. She will be deeply, deeply missed.”
Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger noted the deep ties that Dolly had with East Tennessee, saying, “Dolly Parton was one of ours. She grew up in the hills of Sevier County, right here in Tennessee’s First District, and no matter how big her star got, she never stopped being one of us. She built Dollywood into a place that put East Tennessee on the map for the whole world to see, and through her Imagination Library, she put books in the hands of children who needed them most, including so many right here at home. Her music, her generosity, and her love for these mountains will outlast every one of us. Today, East Tennessee is praying for her family and grieving one of our own.”
Other Tennessee organizations also took the time to honor the work of Dolly, including the Grand Ole Opry.
(X/@opry)
To read more about the life and work of Dolly Parton, see here.