Tennessee has announced plans to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of the legendary country music star Dolly Parton, following her recent passing at the age of 80 in Nashville. The decision was influenced by a social media campaign initiated by fans to pay tribute to Parton’s legacy. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee engaged with Parton’s team to discuss this initiative, emphasizing the significant impact she has had on the state.
Governor Lee expressed, “Dolly Parton’s remarkable life is deeply ingrained in the essence of our state. It is only fitting that Nashville International Airport, where Tennessee extends its hospitality to the world, should bear the name of our beloved state’s iconic figure, welcoming travelers with the enduring essence of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith, and kindness.”
The proposal to rename the airport will be deliberated at a meeting on September 17, as the current Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority’s naming policy typically requires a two-year gap after an individual’s passing before naming any property after them. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development has endorsed this renaming, acknowledging Dolly Parton as a pivotal figure in promoting Tennessee’s tourism.
Mark Ezell, the commissioner of the Department of Tourist Development, remarked, “Dolly Parton has been a leading figure in Tennessee tourism, showcasing the state’s music, landscapes, and warm hospitality to millions worldwide. Renaming the airport after her is a fitting tribute, marking the beginning of countless journeys across Tennessee.”
Dolly Parton, born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, spent her formative years in a humble one-room cabin in Locust Ridge. Her musical journey began at the age of 13 when she started performing at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. With iconic hits like “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You,” Parton became one of the highest-selling female artists in history, with over 100 million records sold. She was honored with 11 Grammy Awards, including a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
The legacy of Dolly Parton continues to resonate, inspiring fans and musicians alike with her timeless music and philanthropic endeavors.
