How Tennessee football will honor the late Dolly Parton this season

Tennessee football will honor the late Dolly Parton with a sticker on the back of their helmets during the 2026 season. The announcement was made by coach Josh Heupel, who praised Parton for her roots, impact, and philanthropy. Parton, known as the "Queen of East Tennessee," died on August 25 at the age of 80. The commemorative helmet sticker will be worn for every game this season.

Parton was an entertainment icon, having started her career in East Tennessee and becoming a well-known recording artist worldwide. She was also recognized for her philanthropic efforts, attending numerous Vols events and even leading Neyland Stadium in singing "Rocky Top" during a game against Georgia in 2023. Parton was a regular around Tennessee and released 49 solo studio albums over her 50-year career.

She was honored as the University of Tennessee's commencement speaker in 2009 and awarded an honorary doctorate in humane and musical letters. Dolly Parton also hosted her tour at the University of Tennessee several times and released an album with UT Athletics earlier that year.