The Tennessee Volunteers are set to honor the late Dolly Parton during their season-opener, marking a significant tribute to the beloved country music icon. The Volunteers, representing the University of Tennessee, will not only wear special helmet stickers in her memory but will also incorporate various tributes throughout the game.
Athletic director Danny White took to social media to emphasize the importance of the tribute, encouraging fans to remain in their seats for the entire game. "Our helmet stickers won’t be the only way we honor Dolly on Saturday," White stated on X. He hinted at several planned tributes during the game, particularly urging fans to stay for the halftime show performed by the UT band, as well as another performance between the third and fourth quarters.
While the specific songs to be played during the game have not been disclosed, it is known that Parton, who passed away recently at the age of 80, had a special connection to the Volunteers. Earlier this year, she performed her iconic song "Rocky Top" at Neyland Stadium during a game against Georgia, an event that was attended by former quarterback Peyton Manning, who escorted her to the stage.
Dolly Parton’s recent death, announced last week, followed a brief battle with cancer. Her publicist, Marcel Pariseau, confirmed that Parton passed away surrounded by loved ones at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville. The news of her passing has left a profound impact on her fans and the music community alike.
Parton was admitted to the hospital just days before her death due to kidney and autoimmune issues. Her health struggles had been ongoing, and she had previously shared that she was prioritizing her late husband Carl Dean's care over her own health. Dean, who passed away in March 2025, had been married to Parton for over six decades.
In her last public statements, Parton expressed her ongoing health challenges but remained committed to her work, stating, "I’m still workin’" despite her struggles. She had also canceled her Las Vegas residency earlier this year due to health concerns, reflecting the toll her health issues had taken on her career.
The Tennessee Volunteers' tribute to Dolly Parton not only honors her legacy but also showcases the deep-rooted connection between the artist and the state of Tennessee, where she was born and raised. As the Volunteers gear up for their season opener, fans can expect a heartfelt celebration of a woman who has left an indelible mark on both music and culture.
Leave a Comment