Dolly Parton remembered across SLO County for music, memories, and lasting connections
By Camille DeVaul · Thu Sep 03 2026
Country music icon performed at CMSF, maintained a friendship with the Madonna family and inspired local tributes
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Dolly Parton may have been a country music legend known around the world, but the beloved singer, songwriter, and philanthropist also maintained a special connection to the Central Coast.
Following Parton’s death Aug. 25 at age 80, local communities and organizations have been remembering the performer not only for her decades-long musical career, but for the personal relationships and memories she created throughout the region.
Born Jan. 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, and raised in the nearby Sevierville area, Dolly Rebecca Parton was the fourth of 12 children in a family that lived modestly in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Her father, Robert Lee Parton, worked various jobs to support the family, while her mother, Avie Lee, raised the children and filled their home with music and faith. Parton began performing as a child, appearing on local radio and television programs before making her debut at the Grand Ole Opry at age 13.
She moved to Nashville as a teenager and soon established herself as a songwriter before launching her own recording career. Over the next six decades, Parton became one of the most successful country artists of all time, writing and recording such enduring songs as “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You” while also building a successful career in film, television, and business.
The California Mid-State Fair paid tribute to Parton, recalling two performances that brought the country music icon to Paso Robles.
“We were incredibly fortunate to welcome Dolly to the California Mid-State Fair stage in 1986, and again in 1990 alongside Kenny Rogers,” the California Mid-State Fair said in a social media post.
The CMSF shared archival photographs of Parton’s 1986 appearance as well as a marquee from her 1990 performance with Rogers.
“A true country music icon, Dolly’s music, kindness, and larger-than-life spirit touched generations of fans around the world,” CMSF said. “Thank you for the music, the memories, and the magic, Dolly. Your legacy will live on forever. We will always love you.”
At the Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo, Parton was remembered as a longtime friend of the Madonna family. The iconic hotel said Alex and Phyllis Madonna treasured their friendship with Parton and recalled her visits to the property throughout the years.
“We are heartbroken to say goodbye to our dear friend, Dolly Parton,” the Madonna Inn said in a social media post tribute to Parton.
Parton’s relationship with the Madonna Inn was personal enough that one of the gold booths in the Alex Madonna Steakhouse became known as “Dolly’s Booth.”
The inn said the booth will continue to carry that name in her honor.
“Dolly was the kindest soul, an incredible talent, and a beautiful light who brought joy and love wherever she went,” the Madonna Inn said. “Her legacy will live on in so many hearts, including ours.”
In remembrance of Parton, the inn also encouraged visitors to enjoy a slice of its signature Pink Champagne Cake and raise a toast to the singer.
Shandon native and country music artist Callie Twisselman reflected on the loss of the singer and the impact she had on both music and the wider world.
“What a light we lost today. Dolly will be missed tremendously,” Twisselman said. “Words can’t express what an impact she had not only on the country music community but the world. She was an incredible talent with an even more beautiful heart. Heaven definitely gained an angel.”
Other local tributes have highlighted Parton’s reputation for generosity and her longtime advocacy for animals and children.
Woods Humane Society waived adoption fees at its San Luis Obispo and Atascadero shelters Aug. 26 in honor of Parton, citing her lifelong support for animal welfare.
Parton died in Nashville following a brief battle with cancer. Though few details surrounding her cancer diagnosis and journey are available, her family and representatives said she died surrounded by loved ones.
Her career spanned nearly six decades and included countless country music classics, film and television appearances, business ventures, and philanthropic efforts. She was also the founder of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which has provided hundreds of millions of books to children around the world.
To remember Parton, many have been donating to the Imagination Library. More information on her nonprofit can be found at imaginationlibrary.com
Feature Image: Dolly Parton performs at the California Mid-State Fair in 1986. The country music icon, who returned to perform at the fair in 1990 with Kenny Rogers, died Aug. 25 at the age of 80. Photo courtesy of the California Mid-State Fair