Lakeville Fire Department Pays Special Tribute to Dolly Parton

A SouthCoast fire department is showing gratitude to a late, great country music legend.

"The Lakeville Fire Department would like to join the community in publicly honoring the life of Dolly Parton," the department posted to Facebook.

The entertainment icon passed away on August 25, 2026 at the age of 80. Throughout her life, she created chart-topping hits, entertained the masses and brought joy to her community, something the Lakeville FD is recognizing.

READ MORE: Dolly Parton, Country Music Legend and Cultural Icon, Dies at 80

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$12 Million Raised for Tennessee Wildfire Victims

In 2016, a wildfire broke out in Gatlinburg, Tennesse. In response, the Dollywood Foundation created the My People Fund, which aimed to distribute $1,000 per month for six months to the families who lost their primary residence. The fundraising efforts were more than successful, with $12 million donated to the local families.

READ MORE: Bruins Foundation Supports California Wildfire Relief

Supporting Volunteer Firefighters Across the Country

The Dollywood Foundation then took it one step further, saying thank you "in recognition of their instrumental role in fighting the 2016 wildfires." A donation of $20,000 was presented to eight fire stations and $40,000 to the training center that services all of Sevier County. The stations in the Smoky Mountain area rely heavily on volunteers, as does the Lakeville Fire Department.

"Let Her Life Be an Inspiration": Lakeville FD Reacts

"What made Dolly special is her spirit and her commitment to serving the community and supporting others who did the same. Let her life be an inspiration to all," Lakeville Fire Department shared.