Tennessee plans to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of the legendary country music icon Dolly Parton following her recent passing at the age of 80. The decision was spurred by a social media campaign by fans advocating for the airport to bear Parton’s name. Governor Bill Lee engaged with Parton’s team to discuss this move, emphasizing her significant impact on the state.
Lee expressed, “Dolly Parton’s remarkable life is intricately woven into the essence of our state. It is fitting that Nashville International Airport, where Tennessee extends a warm welcome to the world, be named after our state’s cherished daughter, embodying Dolly’s enduring legacy of music, generosity, faith, and kindness.”
The proposal to rename the airport, contrary to the current Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority’s policy that requires a two-year period posthumously before naming properties after individuals, will be deliberated at a forthcoming meeting on Sept. 17. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development is in full support of this renaming, recognizing Parton as a pivotal figure in promoting Tennessee’s tourism.
Mark Ezell, the department’s commissioner, highlighted Parton’s influence, stating, “Dolly Parton has been a prominent figure in Tennessee tourism and an exceptional ambassador. Her impact has introduced millions of travelers to our music, mountains, and hospitable nature even before they arrive. Renaming the airport after her is a perfect tribute to the countless Tennessee journeys she has inspired.”
Born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tenn., Parton spent her formative years in a modest one-room cabin in Locust Ridge. Her early career blossomed when she made appearances on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville at the tender age of 13. Parton subsequently relocated to Nashville after completing high school to pursue a career in music.
With iconic hits such as “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You,” Dolly Parton solidified her status as one of the highest-selling female artists of all time, boasting over 100 million records sold. Her illustrious career spanned nearly six decades, during which she garnered 11 Grammy Awards, including a coveted Lifetime Achievement Award.