The Enduring Legacy of Dolly Parton Dolly Parton, the queen of country music, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With timeless hits like “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “Coat of Many Colors,” she has captivated audiences for decades. Parton’s songwriting talent and unique voice have made her a true icon in the world of music.
Not only did she write and record the original version of “I Will Always Love You,” but she has also graced the silver screen, written books, and made her mark as a successful businesswoman and humanitarian.
Dolly Parton grew up ‘dirt poor’ and never saw a toilet until she was eight years old; she now generously donates to charities.
A Childhood Shaped by Poverty
Born on January 19, 1946, in Tennessee, Dolly Parton grew up in humble circumstances. The fourth of twelve children, she experienced firsthand the hardships of poverty. Her father was an illiterate sharecropper, and her mother, of Welsh descent, entertained the family with stories and ballads. Despite their financial struggles, Parton’s parents ensured that their children had food, shelter, and clothing. Parton fondly recalls her childhood, saying:
“We were poor, but I never felt poor. We always had enough to eat, a roof over our heads, and clothes on our backs. Mama and Daddy would point out others who were worse off than us. Everything felt normal to me. It’s only when you look back on eating beans and cornbread, sharing beds, using newspaper for insulation, and using an outhouse that you realize, yes, we were poor.”
Learning Life’s Essentials
Growing up in a crowded one-room cabin near the Little Pigeon River, the Parton family spent most of their time outdoors due to the limited space. In a surprising revelation, Parton admitted that she didn’t see a toilet until she was eight years old when visiting her aunt’s house. She was hesitant to use it, fearing it might “suck them right down.” Parton also revealed that they made their own soap and bathed only once a week during the winter. However, in high school, she had to wash every day because she and her siblings slept together and “the kids peed on me every night.”
Family Influence and Career Success
Despite the challenges she faced, Parton attributes much of her success to her family. They have always been her greatest love and have played a significant role in her music. Her genuine love for her family shines through in her lyrics and performances.
With a net worth of $375 million, Dolly Parton’s generosity matches her incredible wealth. In 1988, she established the Dollywood Foundation, initially providing scholarships to students from her former high school. Over time, the foundation expanded to benefit students from various schools and deserving teachers. One of its standout programs is the Imagination Library, founded in 1995 as a tribute to Parton’s father. It initially served Tennessee and has now reached all 50 states, delivering approximately 1.3 million books to nearly two million children each month. When the initiative celebrated its 100 millionth book delivery in 2018, Parton admitted she never anticipated its immense success.
Acts of Kindness in Difficult Times
During times of hardship, Dolly Parton has stepped up to donate and raise funds for those in need. In response to the devastating wildfires in the Great Smoky Mountains in 2016, she established the My People Fund, which raised over $9 million to assist 900 families. She also contributed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center after her niece successfully received leukemia treatment.
Parton’s charitable efforts extend beyond these instances. She has supported organizations such as the American Red Cross, charities fighting HIV/AIDS, and animal rights organizations. In 2020, she became a vocal advocate for Covid vaccines, and her $1 million contribution played a crucial role in the development of the Moderna vaccine.
Giving with a Generous Heart
Dolly Parton’s acts of kindness come from the heart. She admits to being addicted to the sensation of giving and finding joy in making a difference in the lives of others. Her background undoubtedly influences her commitment to giving back to the community. Parton’s remarkable journey from poverty to success has shaped her into a compassionate and generous soul.
