Country music legend Dolly Parton passed away at the age of 80 on August 25, 2026, and now the Tennessee Volunteers football program is honoring her.
The Tennessee football team will have a commemorative sticker on their helmet that will be worn for every game this season.
For Dolly. 🦋
— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) August 31, 2026
A commemorative helmet sticker will be worn to honor Dolly Parton for every game this season. pic.twitter.com/A1mBw9ZqxZ
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel spoke about the decision on Monday while talking with reporters.
“All that she’s meant across the world, this country, and certainly the Queen of East Tennessee,” Heupel said. “A lady that was extremely proud of her roots. You look at her impact, just her ability to give back, make an impact to people, certainly here in East Tennessee. She means a lot to people across this country, but certainly here inside the state of Tennessee, too.”
Parton was born in Locust Ridge, Tenn., and she has deep ties to the state and the program.
Dolly Parton spoke at the university’s commencement in 2009. She also performed at the school during tours in 2011 and 2014. In 2009, she also received an honorary doctorate in “Humane and Musical Letters.”
The Tennessee football team begins the 2026 season against Furman on Saturday at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville.
