The late Dolly Parton is set to have Nashville International Airport renamed in her honor, following a recent decision by the airport’s board of commissioners in Tennessee. The idea to rename the airport after the celebrated singer gained traction after her passing last month at the age of 80. Fans initiated a social media campaign advocating for the renaming, which garnered significant support from Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell and Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee.
Governor Lee emphasized Parton’s significant impact on Tennessee, stating that her life is deeply intertwined with the state’s history. He highlighted her music, generosity, faith, and kindness as qualities that should be reflected at a place where Tennessee welcomes visitors from around the world.
The decision to rename the airport was praised by Governor Lee as a crucial step in honoring Parton’s remarkable legacy and her role in promoting Tennessee to the world. Parton’s contributions, including the economic boost from her Dollywood theme park, have been substantial, with an estimated yearly revenue of $1.8 billion for the state.
Born in Tennessee in 1946, Parton rose to fame and represented the state on a global stage through her music career, starting at a young age in Nashville. The renaming process for the airport is underway, although the current policy mandates a waiting period of at least two years after a person’s death before any property can be named in their honor.
The specific name for the airport in tribute to Dolly Parton is yet to be determined. The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority assured that they are carefully considering how to incorporate Parton’s name and legacy into the airport’s identity.