Country music legend Dolly Parton is no stranger to hard work. Even though she’s still hustling “9 to 5,” she recently took a break from her busy schedule to visit her hometown of Sevier County, Tennessee. On Monday, May 7, she made a surprise appearance at the dedication ceremony for the newly renamed My People Senior Activity Center. The center, formerly known as the Fort Sanders Sevier Senior Center, decided to rebrand itself to stand out among other local medical facilities. The event brought together Dolly, Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters, and Sevierville Mayor Bryan Atchley to celebrate this special moment. It was an emotional and joyous occasion that truly highlighted Dolly's deep connection to her roots.
In a heartfelt post on Twitter after the event, the 72-year-old icon expressed her excitement about being part of the dedication ceremony. She honored her parents, Avie Lee Caroline and Robert Lee Parton Sr., who both passed away in the early 2000s. “It was such a joy to be part of the My People Senior Activity Center dedication, in honor of my parents!” Dolly wrote. And she didn’t stop there—she also shared a fun anecdote about joining an exercise class at the center. “And, of course, while I was there I had to try out the exercise class with my people!” she joked, showing off her trademark wit and charm.
View this post on InstagramIt was such a joy to be part of the My People Senior Activity Center dedication, in honor of my parents! And, of course, while I was there I had to try out the exercise class with my people! 😉 You can read more about my time there over on DollyParton.com!
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Dolly’s Day of Fun at the Senior Center
During her visit, Dolly didn’t just sit back and watch the festivities. No, this queen of country music rolled up her sleeves and jumped right into the activities. She not only led the exercise class but also joined in on some classic crafts, including quilting, wood-carving, and wood-burning. It was clear that she wanted to fully immerse herself in the experience. To top it off, the My People Senior Activity Center gifted Dolly with a membership card, inviting her to return anytime for more fun. How cool is that?
Throughout the dedication ceremony, Dolly kept the crowd laughing with her signature humor. According to CMT News, she joked, “I’m a senior, too. When I was over in Sevier County High School, I couldn’t wait to be a senior, and now that I’m in my second childhood, I’m a senior again.” She then recounted a funny encounter with an old high school boyfriend. “He said, ‘Dolly, you look like a million dollars.’ I said, ‘Well, thank you. That’s just about how much it [has] cost to make me look like this.’” Classic Dolly—keeping things light and hilarious.
View this post on InstagramSometimes quiet time with my guitar is all I need for a happy heart. What brings you all peace through the day?
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Turning Serious: Dolly’s Message for Seniors
While Dolly kept the mood light with her jokes, she also took a moment to reflect seriously on the importance of staying active and positive as we age. “I’m proud to be a senior citizen,” she said. “Of course, we all wish we could stay 30 forever, but we can’t. So I think it’s important that we stay active, we stay with a good attitude, and get out and stay involved, make friends, and be whatever.” Her words resonated deeply with the audience, reminding everyone that aging doesn’t mean slowing down—it means embracing life in a different way. “And I think being a part of this whole thing is really great, and it is my pleasure to dedicate this to my people,” she concluded.
