Dolly decal: Vols to honor late Parton on helmet

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  Mark SchlabachAug 31, 2026, 01:56 PM ET

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  • Senior college football writer
  • Author of seven books on college football
  • Graduate of the University of Georgia

Tennessee's football program will honor late country singer and philanthropist Dolly Parton with a sticker on the back of players' helmets during the entire 2026 season, Volunteers coach Josh Heupel announced Monday.

Parton died in Nashville on Aug. 25. She was 80.

"All that she's meant across the world, this country, and certainly the Queen of East Tennessee," Heupel told reporters. "A lady that was extremely proud of her roots. You look at her impact, just her ability to give back, make an impact to people, certainly here in East Tennessee. She means a lot to people across this country, but certainly here inside the state of Tennessee, too."

Parton had a close connection with UT. She spoke at the university's commencement in 2009 and received an honorary doctorate of humane and musical letters. She performed on campus during world tours in 2011 and 2014.

In the Volunteers' game against Georgia in 2023, she led the crowd at Neyland Stadium with a rendition of "Rocky Top," along with the university's choir. She was escorted to the stage by legendary UT quarterback Peyton Manning.

"There was only one Dolly and I feel lucky to have known her," Manning wrote on social media shortly after Parton's death was announced. "We'll miss you, Dolly. Tennessee won't be the same without her."

UT's football program also honored Parton with a social media post following her death, writing, "We will always love you, Dolly."

The Volunteers open the season at home against FCS program Furman on Saturday.

Middle Tennessee had previously announced it will wear a jersey patch honoring Parton during its opener against Murray State on Saturday.