Tennessee is planning to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of the late country music legend Dolly Parton, as announced on Friday. The decision follows a social media campaign by fans advocating for the airport to be named after Parton. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee engaged with Parton’s team to discuss this initiative. Lee expressed that Parton’s remarkable life is deeply intertwined with the state’s heritage and values.
The proposed renaming of the airport will be deliberated at a meeting on September 17, as it currently contradicts the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority’s policy that mandates a two-year waiting period after an individual’s passing. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development supports the renaming, with Commissioner Mark Ezell praising Parton as a significant figure in promoting Tennessee’s tourism.
Dolly Parton, born on January 19, 1946, in Tennessee, began her career at a young age and later moved to Nashville to pursue her passion for music. Renowned for hits like “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You,” Parton’s legacy includes over 100 million records sold and 11 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.