The late Dolly Parton is set to have Nashville International Airport renamed in her honor. The decision was made by the airport’s board of commissioners in Tennessee on Friday. This move gained momentum following the singer’s recent passing at the age of 80, with a social media campaign advocating for the airport to be named after the country music icon. Support for the proposal came from Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell and Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee.
Governor Lee stated that Dolly Parton’s impact on Tennessee is profound, and it is fitting for the airport to bear her name as a tribute to her music, generosity, faith, and kindness. This decision was seen as a significant step in recognizing her remarkable legacy and her role in promoting Tennessee.
Dolly Parton’s contributions to the state are substantial, with her Dollywood theme park bringing in an estimated $1.8 billion annually. Born in Tennessee in 1946, she rose to fame performing at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville at a young age and later moved to the city to pursue a music career.
While the renaming process timeline is not yet determined, the airport’s current policy requires a two-year period after a person’s death before any property can be named after them. The exact name for the airport honoring Dolly Parton is still under consideration, with the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority working on how best to incorporate her name and legacy into the airport.