Global icon and American Songwriter, Dolly Parton passed away on August 25, 2026. While her country music brought her fame, she is equally celebrated for how she used it with lasting impacts like building a theme park in the Smoky Mountains and putting books into the hands of millions of children through literacy programs.
Parton was a country music artist and actress since 1964. She was born on January 19, 1946, in Tennessee. She sang and built her career to honor her humble roots and lift up others. Parton is known for her famous songs like “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You.”
At the high school, Kathy Vogel, who’s been teaching for 36 years at Northview, has been listening to Parton since she was old enough to watch television. From watching her perform and listening to her music, Vogel was inspired by her and says she will never forget the impact Parton had on her.
“She has a saying that says, if you see someone without a smile, give them yours. I try to live by that. She stayed true to those throughout her life,” Vogel said. “I think the world is in an ugly place right now, and we need more people like Dolly who don’t judge people.”
Our new attendance supervisor, Julie Duffy, has listened to Parton since 1983, when she made a duet with Kenny Rogers singing “Islands in the Stream.” Duffy describes her as kind and having a big heart. She will remember her personality, full of laughter and empathy.
“She was always such a nice person. She had her imagination library, where she would give away millions of books to kids for free if they couldn’t afford any,” Duffy said. “I think this world lost a soul that emitted such passion and kindness. I’ve never heard her say a negative word in any interview or anything.”
The impact that Parton had on others did not go unnoticed. Duffy loved the way her spirit lifted others; Parton left a legacy and many pieces of wisdom for anyone to carry with them.
“She seemed to always just be in a good mood and laugh and have fun, so don’t take this world too seriously.”
Brandon Paradis, who’s been teaching at the high school for the past 4 years, has been deeply inspired and impacted by Parton. From her donating millions of books to many families and giving back to the community, Paradis will always remember her hilarious jokes and the kindness she shared with everyone.
“She’s impacted me in ways way beyond music. Like giving back to the community and sending books to thousands upon thousands of families,” Paradis said. “I love that she never backed down. She was always that same person. She was always consistent.”
Parton’s legacy goes far beyond her music and acting career. Her kindness, generosity, and dedication to helping others inspired people around the Northview community. The impact she had on others shows that her greatest legacy was not just her music, but the compassion and positivity she shared with everyone. Her message of kindness and giving back will continue to inspire students around the school.
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