NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) –
Danielle Parton, a niece of the late Dolly Parton, has stepped into a new public role as a brand ambassador following the death of the East Tennessee entertainment legend.
In a video announcement released this week, Danielle Parton introduced herself to audiences and reflected on her family’s well-known roots in East Tennessee. She described Dolly Parton, whom she affectionately called “Aunt Granny,” as a constant source of encouragement throughout her life.
According to Danielle Parton, her aunt inspired her to pursue her own path and achieve ambitious goals, leading her to careers in both military service and aviation.
Distinguished Military and Aviation Career
Danielle Parton has built an extensive career as a pilot and military officer. After beginning her professional life as a flight attendant with major airlines, she pursued her longtime goal of becoming a pilot.
She served for 20 years in the Air National Guard, flying C-130 and C-5 military aircraft on missions around the world, including combat deployments. During her service, she earned numerous honors, including the Air Medal and Combat Action Medal. She retired from military service in 2025.
Today, Parton continues flying commercially and remains active in the aviation industry, currently piloting Boeing 787 aircraft.
East Tennessee Entrepreneur
Beyond aviation, Danielle Parton is also an entrepreneur in Sevier County.
She founded Shine Girl, a moonshine distillery and retail business located in Pigeon Forge near Dollywood. The brand draws inspiration from her family’s deep Appalachian roots and long history connected to legal and traditional moonshine production in the Smoky Mountains region.
Parton launched the business in 2022 after years of planning, overcoming trademark disputes, and acquiring a former distillery operation.
Honoring a Family Legacy
Parton said her aunt’s passing prompted her to reflect on the responsibility her family now shares in preserving Dolly Parton’s legacy.
She emphasized that she does not intend to speak on behalf of her famous aunt or attempt to replace her public role. Instead, she says she hopes to share personal stories and memories while supporting the organizations, projects, and causes Dolly Parton championed throughout her life.
Parton also said she plans to continue her work in aviation and business while taking on ambassador responsibilities.
A native of East Tennessee, Danielle Parton graduated from Belmont University in Nashville with a degree in Business Administration and became the first woman in the Parton family to earn a four-year college degree.
