08/25/2026
Tennessee lost a piece of its heart today. 🧡
Dolly Parton was never just a country singer. She was Tennessee wrapped in rhinestones, big hair, a bigger personality, and an even bigger heart.
She came from a little Tennessee Mountain Home wearing a Coat of Many Colors and somehow made the whole world fall in love with where she came from.
She taught us that working 9 to 5 was enough to drive anybody crazy.
She had an entire generation suspicious of any redheaded woman named Jolene.
She reminded us there would always be Islands in the Stream, that sometimes you just need Two Doors Down, and that even when life gets tough, you've still got to keep dreaming.
And somewhere along the way, that little girl from the Smoky Mountains became one of the biggest stars the world has ever known—without ever forgetting Tennessee.
That's what made Dolly special.
The fame never seemed bigger than the woman.
Behind the rhinestones, wigs and jokes was someone who gave back, helped children learn to read, helped families when disaster struck, created opportunities for thousands of people, and made East Tennessee proud every single time she opened her mouth.
I imagine Heaven got a little more colorful today.
And knowing Dolly, she probably showed up at the Pearly Gates, looked around and said, “Lord, this place could use a few more rhinestones.” ❤️
Rest easy, Dolly.
From the mountains of East Tennessee to stages around the world, you gave us a lifetime of memories.
And there's really only one way to say goodbye…
I Will Always Love You.
You may be gone but will never be forgotten...
