Dolly in the Summer of ’78 

The year was 1978. I was almost 26. At the Trumbull County, Ohio Fair that year, one of the featured entertainers was Dolly Parton. Dolly was 32. Though young, it was 20 years after the release of her record Puppy Love.

I knew a person who worked closely with a man named Lyle Williams. I didn’t know Lyle well. He was a county commissioner and had decided to run for Congress as a Republican in an area where Democrats won easily. He would go on to win and remain in Congress for four years before losing to James Traficant, a well‑known name then, though not in a good way.

I was on Dolly’s tour bus, hanging around with some campaign people, when Dolly walked in. I had met quite a few entertainers from previous employment. Of course, I recognized her immediately.

Dolly was larger than I thought she would be, my exposure primarily limited to television appearances. She made her way around the small group inside the bus to warmly greet each person, maybe ask a question or two. She was so warm and gracious.

Given the circumstances, I thought she was there to say a few words on behalf of Williams and maybe mention his name, but I’ve learned she never really got involved in politics. Almost as soon as she finished saying hello, someone from her entourage called to her that it was time for her to take the stage. She made a quick round to say goodbye to us and made her way off the bus. She went off to perform country songs, not my favorite genre, but I enjoyed her songs.

What I remember is her smile, from her entrance to her departure. It seemed real to me, not fake or forced. Dolly would be known as the Queen of Country. Today, at age 80, the Queen departed this realm. Today, and for the next week, the American flag will fly at half‑mast.

[The photos I chose are from 1978]