East Tennessee mourns Dolly Parton as Maryville funeral home opens memorial book

MARYVILLE, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Information Center) — East Tennessee is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved daughters, Dolly Parton, whose music, generosity and unmistakable spirit touched generations of people around the world.

For many across the Smoky Mountain region, Parton was more than a global superstar. She was a native Tennessean who never forgot her roots.

From the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to stages around the world, Parton built a career that made her one of America’s most recognizable entertainers while maintaining a deep connection to the people and places that shaped her.

Her songs became part of the soundtrack of countless lives. Her stories brought laughter and tears, while her philanthropic efforts provided books to children, hope to families and support to communities.

Now, Smith Funeral and Cremation in Maryville is giving the community an opportunity to remember the woman behind the legend.

The funeral home will open its doors to the public beginning Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026, through Sept. 25 for a memorial book honoring Parton.

Community members can visit to pay their respects, share a favorite memory or simply leave a message for Parton and her family.

The memorial book will be available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Smith Funeral and Cremation said the Sept. 25 closing date was selected in honor of Parton’s first album, “Hello, I’m Dolly,” which was released in 1967 and marked the beginning of a musical career that would span generations.

The hours for signing the book — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — were also selected as a tribute to one of Parton’s most recognizable songs, “9 to 5.”

The funeral home plans to present the completed memorial book to the Parton/Dean family as a lasting collection of memories and messages from those who loved her.

For a region that watched one of its own rise from the Tennessee mountains to international fame, the loss carries a particularly personal weight.

Parton’s legacy extends far beyond her music. Her humor, kindness and generosity became as much a part of her identity as the songs she wrote and performed.

She remained connected to the mountains and communities of East Tennessee throughout her life, becoming a source of pride for generations of Tennesseans.

“She wasn’t simply a superstar — she was one of our own,” Smith Funeral and Cremation said in its message to the community.

Those who grew up listening to Parton’s music, found comfort in her songs, were inspired by her generosity or simply admired the girl from the Tennessee mountains who became a legend are invited to leave their memories in the memorial book.

Smith Funeral and Cremation extended its condolences to Parton’s family, friends and admirers around the world.

Her voice, stories, laughter and music are expected to continue resonating across generations — a lasting legacy for a Tennessee treasure whose life reached far beyond the mountains where it began.