“Dolly Parton represented the very best of Tennessee, and she will always hold a special place in the hearts of NASCAR fans and all of us at Bristol Motor Speedway. She took the music, spirit and heart of these mountains to the entire world, but no matter how far her voice reached, she never forgot the people and the place she called home. Her songs will live forever, but so will the example she set through her kindness, generosity and love for others. On behalf of everyone at Bristol Motor Speedway, we send our prayers to the Parton family, the Dollywood family and all who are mourning this extraordinary Tennessean. Our state has lost one of its brightest lights, and we will always be grateful that Dolly was one of ours.”