Avie Lee Owens Parton, mother of the world-renowned country music star, Dolly Parton, was a figure of immense strength, love, and creativity. Her life, full of joys, challenges, and music, was a source of inspiration for her children, especially for Dolly, who often reflected on her mother’s influence in her songs and stories. This article explores the journey of Avie Lee Owens, from her humble beginnings to her formidable role as the matriarch of the Parton family.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 5, 1923, Avie Lee Owens Parton spent her early years in the small cotton farming community of Lockhart, Union County, South Carolina. The daughter of Rena (Valentine) Owens and Rev. Jake Owens, she grew up amidst the rhythms of rural life and the melodies of her father’s fiddle. Rev. Jake Owens was not only a preacher but also a talented musician, whose passion for music was undoubtedly passed down to his daughter, forming the basis of a legacy that would later resonate throughout the world.
Marriage to Robert Lee Parton
At the tender age of 16, Avie Lee Owens found love with Robert Lee Parton. Their marriage in 1939 marked the beginning of a new chapter, filled with the joys and challenges that come with raising a family. Their union was not only a partnership of hearts but also a collaboration that would later nurture one of the most iconic musicians of the 20th century.
Raising a Large Family
Life was not always easy for Avie and Robert, but together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and music. They had twelve children: Willadeene, David, Coy Denver, Dolly Rebecca, Bobby Lee, Stella Mae, Cassie Nan, Randy, Larry Gerald, and twins Freida Estelle and Floyd Parton, as well as Rachel Ann. If raising a large family was a symphony, Avie Lee was the conductor, expertly managing the rhythm and harmony of their daily lives.
With a large family to care for, Avie Lee had to be resourceful and creative. She was known for her handmade gifts, which not only served a practical purpose but also carried the warmth of her love. She nurtured each of her children’s unique talents, encouraging them to pursue their passions and dreams. It was this nurturing environment that played a crucial role in shaping the musical journeys of her children, particularly that of Dolly Parton.
Avie Lee’s life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and creativity. She was not only the heart of her family but also an inspiring figure whose influence extended beyond her home and into the world of music through her daughter, Dolly. In the following sections, we will explore Avie Lee’s musical talents, her influence on Dolly’s music, and her own pursuits in the music world.
Musical Talents and Influence
Avie Lee Owens Parton was a beacon of musical talent, not only nurturing the gift in her children but also possessing an innate love for music herself. This passion stemmed from her own father, Rev. Jake Owens, a gifted fiddler and songwriter, whose influence was deeply ingrained in Avie Lee’s upbringing.
She not only passed on this love for music but also actively supported her children in their musical pursuits. It was from her that Dolly inherited her vocal prowess and her knack for playing the guitar. The echoes of Avie Lee’s melodies can be found in many of Dolly’s songs, a testament to the profound influence she had on her daughter’s music career.
The Story Behind “Coat of Many Colors”
One of the most poignant tales that highlight Avie Lee’s influence is the story behind Dolly Parton’s song, “Coat of Many Colors.” This song tells the tale of Avie Lee sewing a patchwork coat for young Dolly from rags given to the family. Despite being made fun of by her schoolmates, Dolly wore the coat with pride, understanding the love and sacrifice that went into making it.
This touching story epitomizes Avie Lee’s resourcefulness and the immense love she had for her children. It’s a tale that Dolly often recounts with affection, acknowledging the lasting impact it had on her understanding of love, sacrifice, and the value of simple things in life.
Avie Lee’s Own Musical Pursuits
Avie Lee wasn’t just a mother nurturing her children’s talents; she was a talented musician in her own right. In 1990, she released two albums titled “Smoky Mountain Mama,” showcasing her own musical abilities. These albums are a testament to her love for music and her talent as a musician.
Avie Lee’s musical pursuits weren’t limited to recording albums. She was known for her soulful voice and her ability to play the guitar. Her music was an integral part of the Parton household, creating an environment filled with melodies and rhythms that undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping the musical inclinations of her children.
In conclusion, Avie Lee Owens Parton was not just the mother of Dolly Parton; she was a significant influence in her life and her music career. Her love for music, her talent, and her unwavering support for her children’s passions played an instrumental role in shaping their futures. The legacy of Avie Lee’s music, love, and creativity continues to resonate in the lives of her children and in the world of music through Dolly Parton.
Later Years and Passing
Avie Lee Owens Parton, the matriarch of the Parton family, lived a life filled with love and music. In her later years, she continued to be an unwavering pillar of strength and a source of inspiration for her children. Her love for music never faded, and she released two albums titled “Smoky Mountain Mama” in 1990, showcasing her musical talents.
However, life is fleeting, and on December 5, 2003, Avie Lee Owens Parton passed away at the age of 80. Her loss was deeply felt by her children and the community she had touched with her love, strength, and music. Her husband, Robert Lee Parton, had preceded her in death in November 2000, adding another layer of sorrow to the Parton family.
Legacy and Impact on Dolly Parton
While Avie Lee Owens Parton may have left this world, her legacy lives on through her children, particularly her daughter Dolly Parton. The life lessons, love for music, and the strength that Avie Lee instilled in her children have deeply influenced their lives. Dolly often recounts her mother’s tales, acknowledging the lasting impact Avie Lee had on her, both personally and professionally.
Avie Lee’s influence on Dolly’s music is profound and evident in many of her songs. For instance, the famous “Coat of Many Colors” song was inspired by a patchwork coat that Avie Lee had made for Dolly from rags. This song, and many others, are a reflection of Avie Lee’s resourcefulness, love, and care for her children.
Moreover, Avie Lee’s nurturing environment and support for her children’s passions played a significant role in shaping Dolly’s philanthropic work. An example of this is the Imagination Library, a book gifting program that Dolly started in 1995 to foster a love for reading among children. This program is a reflection of the values that Avie Lee instilled in her children.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Avie Lee Owens Parton was not just a mother but also a beacon of resilience, love, and creativity. Her life and journey have left indelible marks on her children’s lives, especially on Dolly Parton, who often pays tribute to her mother’s strength, love, and influence in her songs. Even in her absence, Avie Lee’s legacy continues to live on, resonating through the music and stories of her daughter, Dolly.
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