Peyton Manning pays tribute to Dolly Parton: 'Tennessee won't be the same without her!'

Among those was Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning, who shared a connection with Parton given their ties to Tennessee.

"We'll miss you, Dolly. Tennessee won't be the same without her!"

The picture that Manning posted was one of many iconic performances for Parton, but this one was exceptionally good by the East Tennessee native. She performed the Vols' signature "Rocky Top" song after the first quarter on Nov. 18, 2023.

Parton even said that she could barely hear herself during her performance because the stadium was so loud. But Parton's moments in sports went well beyond appearances at Vols games.

Parton died peacefully in Nashville, Tennessee, on Tuesday, according to a press release obtained by Fox News Digital.

Her nephew, Brin Seaver, also revealed the news in an Instagram video, which comes after Parton spent months battling an unknown health issue.

Parton was much more than a country music artist, as she was known for also being an actress, a philanthropist, a businesswoman and humanitarian.

During her illustrious life and career, Parton tallied 11 Grammy Awards, three Emmy Awards, and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, while also being nominated for six Golden Globe Awards, a Tony Award and two Academy Awards.

Parton was also married to Carl Dean for nearly 60 years, with their relationship mostly remaining outside the public eye. Dean passed away in March 2025.

At Parton's request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family.

Fox News' Christian Dugan Ramirez contributed to this report.