08/26/2026
Dolly Parton has been a part of life for as long as most can remember.
She never knew most of us, yet somehow she became a familiar and constant presence in so many lives. Her music, her humor, her kindness, and her generosity became part of the soundtrack of generations.
What has always stood out most is where she came from and what she chose to do once she made it. She came from very little and built an extraordinary life for herself. But when she finally opened that door, she didn't close it behind her.
She held it open.
She used her success to make room for millions of other people. She gave children books, supported education, helped communities, and gave so much to people who needed a hand up. She never forgot where she came from, and she never seemed to believe that making it out meant leaving everyone else behind.
There is another reason this loss feels especially significant.
Dolly was a nickname in our family. Our Dolly was given her name by her paternal grandfather in 1951, and we lost her in December of 2023.
And now the world is collectively grieving the loss of another Dolly.
Two very different women, both called Dolly. One known to a family, one known to the world. And somehow, saying goodbye to one brings the memory of the other a little closer.
Thank you, Dolly, for the music, the laughter, the kindness, and for showing the world what it looks like to come from very little, build something extraordinary, and then turn around and hold the door open for everyone coming behind.
There will never be another you. 🦋
Dolly Parton
