He has become a 'folk hero' in his home state because of the work he has done to help poor children.
He doesn't much care for city 'folk'. [=people who live in a city]
His 'folks' gave him everything a kid could want.
(..) Could we just try to keep this as civilized as possible? Please sign these papers so I can go home. What do you know from home? Hell, I bet your folks don't even know you're in town. That's my business. Honey, those people are the only family you got. Don't you "honey" me, (..)2002 Sweet Home Alabama
(..) Mel, it's gonna come out sooner or later. No, l-I know, I know, but, um, it's just, I haven't seen my folks in about years, and I just feel like I should probably tell them in person. Of course. And, um... l-I think I should do it alone. (..)2002 Sweet Home Alabama