M.E.M.

She Spoke to Us All

80 years young

and she didn’t even look it.

Decades-long career she built

from the ground up.

 

Her heart belonged to the heartland,

her family, and friends.

Yet we were all her friends.

 

Dolly was always found smiling.

Not a ditzy smile,

but a smile that had strength,

experience, and hardship behind it.

 

I am not a country music fan,

but I will never change the station

if Dolly Parton is on.

 

Dolly always gave off positive energy

Even through the screen.

She would welcome you in

with understanding and kindness,

exuding a warmth

you wouldn’t mind being enveloped by

even on a scorching hot day.

 

Dolly Parton is multitalented.

Dolly Parton was the best of us.

 

January 19, 1946 - August 25, 2026