Dolly Parton, a country music icon, has passed away at the age of 80.
Known as the "Queen of Country," Parton's passing has rocked more than just those in the music industry. Her reach was far and wide, ranging from business to charity, sports and everything in between. At the time of her passing, Parton was no longer just a country singer.
Her infectious energy filled the room, eliciting smiles in a way that few can ever achieve. Most importantly, Parton never forgot her roots.
In the wake of her death, it was her home team that was in mourning as the Tennessee Titans released a statement to honor Parton.
"On behalf of the Tennessee Titans, we join our community across the state in mourning a true national and Tennessee treasure," team owner Amy
Adams Strunk said in a statement.
Remembering a true Tennessee icon 🦋 pic.twitter.com/d9IpehxIFe
— Tennessee Titans (@Titans) August 25, 2026
"Dolly's extraordinary talent reached every corner of the world, and yet she never lost touch with the roots that shaped her. Her boundless generosity touched millions of lives, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. We extend our deepest condolences to her family; she will be dearly missed."
The Titans weren't the only NFL team to honor the music legend.
A tribute also came in from the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, who shared a post on social media.
"Remembering an icon, Dolly Parton," the post on X read.
Remembering an icon, Dolly Parton. 💙 pic.twitter.com/KId3uBEeOu
— Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (@DCCheerleaders) August 25, 2026
Parton famously dressed up as a Cowboys cheerleader for her 2023 Thanksgiving halftime show performance. In front of the AT&T Stadium crowd, she performed a medley of her greatest hits in front of 93,000 people.
The Cowboys replied to the post from their cheerleaders with a trio of blue heart emojis.
Even when Parton wasn't involved, she still had a way of being an influence – even on the NFL stage. During the NFL's 2024 Christmas halftime show, Beyonce paid tribute to Parton's hit song, "Jolene."
Beyoncé pays tribute to the legendary Dolly Parton with an amazing cover of 'Jolene'! 🎶🔥#NFL pic.twitter.com/WNb0s1iZHb
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 25, 2024
In other words, Parton might be gone, but she will never be forgotten.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cowboys, Titans pay tribute to country music icon Dolly Parton
