The Queen of Country, Dolly Parton, a woman of many talents, passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. Like so many people in the United States and across the world, I was devastated.
When I first heard she passed, I was in my online public speaking class. All of my friends from home texted the news in our group chat. Hania, one of my friends, sent “Tegan we’re here for you” to the group because they all know how much I love her. Even my public speaking professor said something about Dolly’s passing during class.
Apart from being an amazing singer and actress, Dolly was a philanthropist her entire career — it became the backbone of her brand. One of her biggest contributions is the Imagination Library, which gives kids one book a month from birth until the age of five. I have always felt a pull toward community service, so I can see why Dolly herself loved doing it. Volunteerism makes me feel good about myself.Â
Recently, I volunteered for the local Bread and Broth in my hometown. Bread and Broth is a full dinner service that is served every Monday at St. Theresa Church for those in the community in need. Serving dinner to hundreds of my community members was a privilege. I hope to repeat this eye-opening and meaningful experience.
While serving hot meals at Bread and Broth was a more serious matter, some of my past volunteering allowed me to fully embrace Dolly’s playful, joyful side, like the time when I agreed to be the Easter Bunny for the Optimist Club of South Lake Tahoe. If you have the opportunity to be the Easter Bunny, do it. Donning the bunny mask and watching the wide range of emotional experiences kids have grounded and fulfilled me.
Dolly has always expressed in press interviews that everyone is equal no matter where you come from, whether that be sexuality, political and religious beliefs, or wealth. Her words stuck with me. I strive to include everyone I meet and always have a smile on my face.Â
One recent instance where I put her principles of equality into practice was this past year while I was on my high school dance team. Being one of the oldest dancers on the team comes with responsibility. A group of girls announced that they were going to film the dance and then screenshot everyone’s mistakes. Knowing the girls, I recognized it as bullying, so I went to my coaches and athletic director. Speaking up helped bring the team closer for the rest of the season and taught me the importance of always speaking up. Standing up for my teammates proved to me that putting Dolly’s values into use takes courage, but creates the kind of community she has always promoted.
Dolly constantly carried a warm, inviting aura. I hope to carry her memory with me as I explore my next steps into the future. Witnessing her kindness throughout my life encourages greater awareness of my actions. Moving forward, I’m going to hold on to four simple words: What Would Dolly Do?