Dolly Parton remembered by Cape Fear fans as a generational icon
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Country music superstar Dolly Parton, whose career spanned music, film, television and Broadway, has died.
Parton was also known for her philanthropy, including her Imagination Library literacy program, as well as her Tennessee theme park, Dollywood.
Her music, generosity and larger-than-life personality touched fans around the world, including generations of fans here in the Cape Fear.
Parton rose from humble beginnings in Tennessee to become one of country music’s most recognizable figures. Her career included hits such as “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” as well as acting roles and business ventures.
Her partnership with Porter Wagoner helped launch her career, and she later established herself as a successful actor and entrepreneur.
Parton also made her mark beyond country music. She wrote music for the Broadway adaptation of “9 to 5,” bringing her signature style to the stage.
Shane Fernando, a UNCW alumnus and CEO of Thalian Hall, said Parton’s influence could be felt across the entertainment industry.
“Her music permeated so many parts of the industry in terms of concerts and other types of live music events, but also Broadway. And she made a very powerful presence on Broadway. One particular favorite is ‘9 to 5.’ The music, the writing that she had within that show, and creating that show and adapting it from screen to stage. She was so adept in so many different genres,” said Fernando.
Parton also has a connection to Wilmington’s own history.
A letter to the editor published in the UNCW Seahawk newspaper says Parton performed on the university’s campus in 1978. That same year, the bands Heart and Foreigner also performed at UNCW.
Photos from Parton’s performance remain part of the university’s historical record.
Her influence extended beyond the stage and into fashion, where her rhinestones, fringe and signature cowboy boots became part of her instantly recognizable image.
For Alyssa Bibbens, who works at Boot Barn in Wilmington, Parton’s music is tied to memories of growing up with her grandmother.
“We used to listen to ‘9 to 5 ‘; she had her vinyl and everything that she passed down to me. I grew up listening to her just because she’s been just like a huge part of everyone’s life,” said Bibbens.
Parton’s impact also crossed generations and political divides. President Donald Trump called her “one of the greatest country singers” and said he was ordering U.S. flags to be lowered across the country for a week beginning Tuesday evening.
For many fans, however, Parton’s legacy is personal — tied to songs, concerts, family memories and the moments her music helped create.
As fans across the Cape Fear remember Parton, those memories are becoming another part of the legacy she leaves behind.
