“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Stella Parton: A Life of Music, Memoirs, and More
Born on May 4, 1949, in the foothills of Sevierville, Tennessee, Stella Parton has led a rich and diverse life filled with music, storytelling, and a deep-rooted love for creativity and family. While she may be best known as the sister of Dolly Parton, Stella has long forged a path all her own—one that reflects both her talent and her tireless work ethic.
Stella’s music career began to blossom in 1975 when she released her debut album I Want to Hold You in My Dreams Tonight. The record found early success and helped establish her in the country music world. Over the years, Stella has released more than 36 albums, gaining a loyal fanbase and earning critical recognition for her distinct voice and songwriting. She also appeared in the 2015 film Coat of Many Colors, a family project that beautifully captured the spirit and closeness of the Parton family.
But music is just one chapter of Stella’s creative journey. In 2011, she published her memoir Tell It Sister, Tell It: Memories, Music and Miracles, offering readers a heartfelt look into her personal life, her career in the spotlight, and the challenges she has faced along the way. The book, inspired by her sister Willadeene, adds yet another layer to her multifaceted career.
Stella has also made her mark in the kitchen. She authored several cookbooks, including State Fairs and Church Bazaars and Stella Parton’s Country Cookin’, which combine her Southern roots with her love for homemade meals. In 2018, she stepped into the culinary spotlight on the British television series Celebrity MasterChef, where she impressed judges and audiences alike with her passion and skill.
During the promotion of her film Nothing Is Impossible, Stella reflected on her busy life, revealing that she always has “two or three projects on the cooker, in the slow-cooker” at once. Whether it’s music, acting, or cooking, she thrives on being active. “I don’t think of myself as having above-average talent or intellect,” she shared, “but I know I’m above average when it comes to productivity. I work hard.”
Despite her many independent pursuits, Stella’s commitment to her family remains steadfast. While she often works on her own, she’s always ready to lend a hand to those closest to her. “If they need me—whether it’s for producing, consulting, or anything else—I’m there,” she said. “And they respect and appreciate that.”
Stella is also a proud mother. At 19, she gave birth to her son, Timothy, with her first husband, Marvin Carrol Rauhuff. Their marriage lasted four years before ending in divorce in 1970. Her second marriage to Steven Messer spanned from 1988 to 1991. Though her romantic relationships have come and gone, Stella has remained focused, grounded, and deeply connected to her roots.
Through every twist and turn of her journey, Stella Parton has continued to evolve—building a legacy that extends far beyond the country music stage. From her soulful records and heartfelt memoirs to her beloved recipes and supportive family ties, Stella embodies the spirit of resilience and creative passion. And with every new endeavor, she proves that her story is far from over.