The recent passing of Dolly Parton has deeply affected many, especially in Tennessee, where she was a beloved figure. Her influence reached beyond country music, making her an icon in various fields including film and theme parks.

On Saturday, the Tennessee Volunteers football team began their 2026 season with a special tribute to Parton. Fans at Neyland Stadium, a crowd of 102,000, paid their respects to the late legend.

“Tennessee won’t be the same without her!” – Peyton Manning

As reported by ESPN, the team’s head coach, Josh Heupel, announced a tribute decal in Parton’s honor. An orange butterfly with her name now adorns the helmets of all Volunteer players for the season. “A lady that was extremely proud of her roots,” Heupel remarked, emphasizing her contributions to East Tennessee and beyond.

During their game against the Furman Paladins, the tributes continued. A standout moment occurred when the crowd together sang Parton’s 1974 hit, “I Will Always Love You.” The emotional atmosphere was palpable as fans joined in unison.

Additionally, the Volunteers replaced their usual fourth-quarter song with Parton’s “My Tennessee Mountain Home.” This switch highlighted the deep connection she held with the state.

There is a possibility that such tributes might evolve into lasting traditions, underscoring Dolly Parton’s enduring influence in Tennessee.