Central Valley fans remember Dolly Parton's legacy of music and philanthropy

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- "Queen of Country" Dolly Parton's family announced the singer-songwriter passed away peacefully Tuesday morning in Nashville.

Thousands of tributes are underway worldwide, including here in the Central Valley.

Alongside her music, Parton was also widely known for her acting, writing and philanthropy.

"The term icon is thrown around a lot. I think Dolly Parton embodies everything that an icon should want to be," said David Kane Caudillo, the director of public relations for One Putt Broadcasting in Fresno.

105.5 FM will be playing some of Parton's many hits Tuesday and Wednesday in her honor.

Off the air, news of her death sent shock waves across the Central Valley, including at Fresno State.

"When the news came in, I think everybody got the alert on their phone, so they started playing 9 to 5 in her honor," said Fresno City Council member Tyler Maxwell, who was on the university's campus when he found out.

Maxwell says the response shows how many lives Parton touched, not only across generations, but also across cultures and communities.

"If you have a child age 0-5 in Fresno County, you definitely know who Dolly Parton is because she brought her Imagination Library to Fresno County last year," Maxwell said.

Helping others was one of Parton's many passions.

She founded the Dollywood Foundation, which runs the singer's Imagination Library educational initiative throughout the U.S.

As one of 12 children, Parton had a humble childhood and wanted to make sure every child had access to education.

It was just one of many ways she worked to make the world a better place.

Millions are now remembering her for her kindness, generosity, and legendary music.

Across Fresno on Tuesday, record stores displayed Parton's hits as fans found their favorites to take home.

Many of them said they want to keep her memory alive.

"She was such a good person and did things like donate money... I think that is such a huge part of what made her such a pop culture icon," said Nick Navarro, the owner of Tower District Records in Central Fresno.

Parton's biggest fans say they hope others honor her legacy by being like Dolly.

"Just embody what she represented. You know, that wholesomeness. You know, that always having fun. That smile on your face. I think that's what people should really continue doing," said Caudillo.

Dolly Parton was 80 years old.

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