Tennessee Honors Dolly Parton on Her 80th Birthday with Celebrations from Reba McEntire and Other Stars
Dolly Parton in Nashville in May 2025.
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### Dolly Parton Honored with “Dolly Parton Day” in Tennessee
On January 19, 2025, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee officially declared the date as “Dolly Parton Day” in recognition of the country music star’s 80th birthday. This proclamation was announced through an official notice honoring Parton’s lifelong achievements and positive contributions.
According to the proclamation, “Dolly Parton is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, musician, actress, producer, and entrepreneur whose body of work embodies the spirit of Tennessee; and throughout her remarkable career, Dolly Parton has earned numerous awards and accolades and is widely regarded as one of the most influential and beloved artists in the history of American music.”
Dolly Parton attends the Dolly! All Access Pop-Up Store Preview & Press Conference on May 09, 2023 in Frisco, Texas.
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The proclamation also highlights Parton’s philanthropic efforts through the Dollywood Foundation and the Imagination Library, stating, “Dolly Parton’s generosity, humility, and dedication to improving the lives of others exemplify the values of the Volunteer State and serve as an inspiration to Tennesseans and people worldwide.”
Parton received an outpouring of birthday wishes on social media from friends in the country music community. Notably, Reba McEntire shared a series of nostalgic photos of them together on Instagram, expressing her gratitude and love: “Happy 80th Birthday to the one and only, @DollyParton! I love you to pieces and I’m so thankful for all these years of memories we’ve shared.”
Billy Ray Cyrus, who considers Parton to be the godmother of his daughter Miley Cyrus, also dedicated a heartfelt post to her. “Dolly Parton at 80 is a reminder of what music is supposed to do… bring people together, lift spirits, and tell the truth with heart,” he wrote, adding that her influence extends far beyond the music charts.
Shania Twain joined in the tributes, posting a nostalgic video from their performance at the Kennedy Center Honors in 2006. “I want to wish the most happiest of birthdays to my musical hero @dollyparton! ❤️ What a privilege it is to know you,” she wrote, acknowledging Parton as a significant inspiration in her life and career.
In a reflective moment shared with PEOPLE, Parton commented on turning 80, saying, “People say, ‘Well, you’re going to be 80 years old.’ Well, so what? Look at all I’ve done in 80 years. I feel like I’m just getting started.”
