Harshbarger Introduces Resolution Honoring Life and Legacy of Dolly Parton, Leads Moment of Silence on House Floor

September 2, 2026 Press Release Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) today introduced a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, the Sevier County native whose music, generosity, and devotion to her East Tennessee roots continue to touch the lives of millions following her passing on Aug. 25, 2026, in Nashville, at age 80. The resolution was co-led by Congressman John Rose (R-TN) and cosponsored by the entire Tennessee House delegation. Harshbarger also led a moment of silence on the House Floor this evening in Parton's honor. “Dolly Parton was one of our own, and she never forgot where she came from,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Her music told the truth about hard work, faith, and family, and that truth is why the whole world fell in love with her. But it was her heart that made her a legend at home. Whether she was rebuilding after the wildfires that tore through her own community, opening doors for children to learn to read, supporting healthcare and research for Tennessee families, or protecting the mountains she loved, Dolly gave back every chance she got. Guided by her faith and shaped by her East Tennessee upbringing, she used her success to lift up the people around her at every turn. My prayers are with her family and everyone who loved her, and I am honored to lead this effort in the House to make sure her legacy is remembered for generations to come.” “We couldn’t have asked for a better ambassador for Tennessee than Dolly Parton,” said Congressman John Rose. “She will continue to touch countless lives through her music and philanthropy, including the Imagination Library, and her impact on tourism in East Tennessee will be felt for decades to come. I was honored to sign onto this resolution which recognizes her extraordinary life.” “Dolly Parton embodied everything it meant to be an East Tennessean. Her voice, her style, and her outlook on life were all born from her upbringing in Sevierville. She rose from a poor, rural farmhouse to the peaks of stardom, never forgetting the people and the place that helped her get there. The American Dream resonates with every person in this country, and as much as we love to claim her in Tennessee, she represented all of America. Rest in peace, Dolly,” said Congressman Tim Burchett. “Dolly was a living embodiment of grace, unwavering love and support, and generosity. She was the greatest representative of Tennessee ever. Not just from her musical talents and her philanthropy, but from her big heart and outstanding generosity. She made us all proud. The world would be a better place if more people were like Dolly,” said Congressman Steve Cohen. “Not one Tennessean has ever done more for our great state than Dolly Parton. I am proud to co-sponsor this resolution to honor her life and legacy of always putting others first,” said Congressman Scott DesJarlais. “As we mourn the passing of Dolly Parton, we remember not only a legendary voice but a true Tennessee treasure. Dolly’s kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit brought pride to our state and joy to millions around the world. Her remarkable legacy in music, philanthropy, and the hearts of so many will never be forgotten. From the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee to stages worldwide, Dolly embodied the best of our community's values and touched lives everywhere she went. We honor her memory and give thanks for the extraordinary life she shared with all of us," said Congressman Chuck Fleischmann. “I am honored to cosponsor this resolution recognizing the life and legacy of Dolly Parton,” said Congressman David Kustoff. “Dolly brought pride to our state and joy to millions. Dolly’s legacy will remain a part of Tennessee and our nation for generations to come.” “Tennessee has lost one of its brightest stars,” said Congressman Andy Ogles. “Dolly Parton was a model Tennessean. A woman of faith, humility, generosity, and extraordinary talent who never forgot where she came from. Our prayers are with Dolly’s family and all those mourning this tremendous loss. Tennessee will never be the same without her.” “Dolly Parton represented the very best of Tennessee, and her loss is being felt around the world. She grew up one of twelve children in a two-room cabin in the mountains of East Tennessee, and no matter how far her career took her, she never forgot where she came from. While widely known for her music and acting, her philanthropic work left its own legacy as well. When wildfires devastated Sevier County in 2016, Dolly stepped in and provided more than 900 families who had lost their homes with $10,000 each. In addition to her many other charitable gifts, her commitment to giving back also led her to establish the Imagination Library in 1995, which began in her home county and grew into a worldwide program that has provided more than 330 million free books to children. While Dolly was always proud to call Tennessee home, Tennessee could not have been prouder to call her one of our own. We will miss her dearly," said Congressman Matt Van Epps. “Dolly Parton was a Tennessee treasure who lived out the Volunteer Spirit, loved our nation, and opened doors of opportunity for countless people,” said Senator Marsha Blackburn . “While there are no words to fully express the sorrow all Tennesseans feel in her loss, I hope this resolution plays at least a small part in ensuring that her legacy is never forgotten, and I am honored to lead it in the Senate.” “Dolly is truly a Tennessee legend,” said Senator Bill Hagerty. “From her humble beginnings in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains to worldwide fame, Dolly exemplified the American Dream. Whether she was performing on stages across the globe, creating opportunities for families to make memories in Dollywood, or fostering a love of reading through her Imagination Library, Dolly lived a life dedicated to encouraging others to dream just as boldly as she did. She never forgot where she came from and left an indelible cultural and economic impact on our state. She will be very dearly missed.” CLICK HERE to read the resolution. ###