Tennessee plans to change the name of Nashville International Airport to honor country music legend Dolly Parton, following her recent passing at the age of 80 in the heart of country music, Nashville. The decision was made after fans initiated a social media campaign to rename the airport in tribute to Parton. Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee engaged with Parton’s team to discuss this change, emphasizing her significant impact on the state.
Lee stated that Dolly Parton’s remarkable life is deeply ingrained in the essence of Tennessee. He highlighted that it is fitting for Nashville International Airport, the gateway where Tennessee welcomes visitors from around the world, to carry the name of its beloved native daughter, embodying the enduring legacy of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith, and kindness.
A meeting will be held on September 17 to address the proposal to rename the airport, as the current policy of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority restricts naming properties after individuals who have not been deceased for at least two years, as reported by The New York Times. Tennessee’s Department of Tourist Development is in support of this initiative, with Commissioner Mark Ezell recognizing Dolly Parton as a prominent figure in promoting Tennessee tourism.
Dolly Parton, often regarded as the first lady and greatest ambassador of Tennessee tourism, has introduced millions of travelers to the state’s music, landscapes, and welcoming culture even before they arrive. Her career, which spanned nearly six decades, included hit songs like “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You,” making her one of the top-selling female artists in history with over 100 million records sold and 11 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, Parton grew up in a modest one-room cabin in Locust Ridge. She began her musical journey at the age of 13 by performing at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, eventually relocating to the city after high school to pursue her music career. Throughout her illustrious career, Dolly Parton left an indelible mark on American music and culture.