08/26/2026
Statement from Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters and Mayor-Elect Bryan McCarter
Sevier County joins our community, our state, and people around the world in mourning the loss of Dolly Parton, a true Tennessee icon and one of our own.
Dolly’s impact on Sevier County reaches far beyond her remarkable career. She dedicated herself to making this community a better place, from helping lead the recovery and rebuilding efforts following the 2016 wildfires to her lasting commitment to the children and families of our region through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Her generosity, compassion, and love for the people of Sevier County have touched countless lives and will continue to do so for generations to come.
We are deeply grateful for all that Dolly gave to our community and for the way she carried the spirit of the Smokies with her wherever she went. Sevier County has lost a beloved friend, an extraordinary neighbor, and an icon whose legacy will forever be part of the story of our community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Dolly’s family, friends, loved ones, and all those across Sevier County and around the world who are grieving this tremendous loss.
Mayor Larry Waters and Mayor-Elect Bryan McCarter have declared Wednesday, August 26, 2026, as a Day of Mourning in Sevier County in honor of Dolly Parton and her extraordinary life and service to our community.
Additionally, Mayor Waters, in conjunction with Mayor-Elect McCarter, has directed that the Sevier County flag be flown at half-staff until the day of interment in honor of Dolly.