Cape Fear fan reflects on cherished memory of seeing Dolly Parton in 1978

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — Dolly Parton’s death Tuesday at age 80 has prompted an outpouring of memories from fans worldwide, including in the Cape Fear, where people are reflecting on the music icon’s influence and the personal connections she built throughout her career.

Parton was remembered not only for her music, but also for her business ventures and philanthropic efforts, including her Imagination Library program, which provides free books to children.

For WWAY Senior Account Executive Melissa Walton-Gideon, one of her most cherished memories of Parton dates back to 1978, when she was 11 years old and saw the country music star perform in concert.

Walton-Gideon says she was captivated by Parton’s signature glitz and glamor and even dressed as her for Halloween that same year.

Decades later, Walton-Gideon rediscovered the program from that concert, bringing back memories of a special time with her family.

“I just had this in a photo album that’s been under plastic for all of these years, so it was just a great family memory with my grandmother and with my aunt and with my cousins,” said Walton-Gideon.

Walton-Gideon said Parton and her music continue to hold a special place in her family. Her cousin even followed in the rhinestone icon’s footsteps, pursuing a music career in Nashville.