Dolly Parton’s Humble Beginnings and a Milestone Birthday Ahead

As country music legend Dolly Parton approaches her 80th birthday on January 19, fans are reflecting on the remarkable journey that began with the humblest of circumstances.

Dolly Rebecca Parton was born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, the fourth of twelve children born to Avie Lee and Robert Lee Parton. Her parents struggled financially, and when the time came to pay the doctor who delivered her, they simply didn’t have the money.

Instead, they compensated Dr. Robert F. Thomas with a sack of cornmeal—an arrangement that has since become a well-known part of Dolly’s life story.

Today, Dr. Thomas’s role in Dolly’s life is honored in a meaningful way. A small white chapel bearing his name stands inside Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s theme park. The chapel hosts weekly Sunday morning church services and holds special 3 p.m. services during the Christmas season, serving as a quiet tribute to the doctor who helped bring her into the world.

The Grand Ole Opry Honors Dolly’s Legacy

January is also significant for Dolly Parton because it marks another major milestone in her career—her anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. She officially joined the Opry on January 4, 1969.

To celebrate both her upcoming 80th birthday and her 57 years as an Opry member, the Grand Ole Opry has planned a special “Birthday Weekend Celebration” in her honor. The event will take place on January 17 at the Opry House in Nashville and will focus on Dolly’s unforgettable 1980s era.

The Opry announced the first wave of performers on January 7, including Lainey Wilson, Vince Gill, Trannie Anderson, Rhonda Vincent, with additional artists expected to be revealed. Tickets for the event are available through the Opry’s official website.

Promoting the celebration, the Opry encouraged fans to embrace the nostalgia, writing, “Get ready to throw it back to a time when the hair was bigger, the outfits were brighter, and ‘9 to 5’ ruled the big screen.”

The announcement also featured a video message from Dolly herself, expressing gratitude to those who will honor her by performing her music on the Opry stage. Although she won’t be able to attend the event in person, the Opry shared that they are excited to celebrate her life and legacy through music and festivities throughout the day.