Dolly Parton's death on Tuesday prompted widespread grief across Tennessee, where she remained a beloved figure despite global fame. Born in Sevierville, Parton built Dollywood in Pigeon Forge and donated millions to disaster relief and Vanderbilt University research. Her autobiographical musical premiered in Nashville before heading to New York.

Christy Farris, 51, stated, "She stayed true to us." Beverly Keel, dean of Middle Tennessee State University, added, "I can’t express the profound grief Tennessee will experience this week." Flags were lowered to half-staff, and politicians and artists offered condolences. At the Country Music Hall of Fame, a condolence book formed as fans mourned. The Grand Ole Opry opened with Rhonda Vincent performing "Coat of Many Colors," dedicating the song to Parton.

Erin Russell, visiting from Connecticut, compared the mourning to London after Princess Diana's death. In East Tennessee, the city of Sevierville stated the world lost an icon, but the town lost a daughter who never stopped loving her home. Natalie Tyson, 41, was moved by Parton's philanthropy.

Throughout the night, performers shared memories, with radio announcer Charlie Mattos noting, "If you were a Tennessean, you were probably touched by her in some way.".