Nashville International Airport might soon be renamed to honor Dolly Parton. The iconic country star from Tennessee passed away at 80. On Friday, the airport and Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced plans to rename the airport to celebrate Dolly’s legacy.
The aim is to create a tribute to her and the inspiration she provided to many in Tennessee and worldwide. The proposal will be discussed at the Metro Nashville Airport Authority meeting on September 17.
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Governor Lee spoke to Parton’s team about the renaming proposal, and they expressed their gratitude. He stated, “Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state.” Parton’s influence spans from East Tennessee to global platforms, embodying the Volunteer Spirit. According to Lee, naming the airport after her would be a fitting tribute at a gateway to Tennessee for global visitors.
The proposal to rename the airport is set for discussion on September 17, as confirmed by the Metro Nashville Airport Authority. A petition supporting the name change, initiated over a year before Parton’s death, has gained more than 160,000 signatures. It has even received backing from a Nashville City Council member and a Tennessee state representative.
The “Queen of Country” died peacefully, surrounded by family, after a brief battle with cancer. Her passing resonated across the nation and internationally, prompting tributes from fans, celebrities, and politicians.
Beyond her music, Parton was famed for her distinctive hair, charm, and wit. Many admired her business acumen and philanthropy. She founded the Dollywood Foundation to aid property relief and educational initiatives in East Tennessee. Her Imagination Library also sends free books to children worldwide.
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