Tennessee is planning to change the name of Nashville International Airport to honor the legendary country music figure Dolly Parton following her passing at the age of 80 in the city known for its country music heritage.
The decision to rename the airport is a result of a social media campaign initiated by fans to pay tribute to Dolly Parton after her recent demise. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee engaged in discussions with Parton’s team regarding this proposal. Governor Lee expressed that Dolly Parton’s remarkable life is deeply intertwined with Tennessee, making it appropriate for Nashville International Airport to be named after the state’s cherished figure, thus embodying the enduring legacy of her music, generosity, faith, and kindness to welcome travelers from around the world.
A meeting scheduled for September 17 will address the recommendation to rename the airport and review the existing Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority’s policy on naming properties after individuals posthumously. The current policy stipulates a waiting period of at least two years after a person’s passing before any property can be named in their honor, as reported by The New York Times.
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development is endorsing this initiative, with Commissioner Mark Ezell referring to Dolly Parton as a key figure in promoting Tennessee tourism as well as a significant ambassador for the state. Parton’s impact on showcasing Tennessee’s music, landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere to millions of travelers worldwide is unparalleled, making the airport renaming a fitting tribute to where many Tennessee journeys commence.
Dolly Parton, born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tenn., grew up in a modest one-room cabin in Locust Ridge nearby. Her musical journey began early, performing on the renowned Grand Ole Opry stage in Nashville at the age of 13. Subsequently, she relocated to Nashville after completing high school to pursue her music career.
Known for timeless hits like “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You,” Dolly Parton emerged as one of the most successful female artists in history, selling over 100 million records. Her achievements include 11 Grammy Awards, including a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, solidifying her legacy in the world of music.
