Nashville Airport May Be Renamed After Dolly Parton

The Nashville International Airport could soon honor the legacy of Tennessee icon Dolly Parton by renaming itself after her, a decision announced by the Governor of Tennessee and airport officials on Friday. Country legend and philanthropist Dolly Parton, originally from rural Tennessee, passed away on Tuesday at 80 years old.

A news release from the airport and Tennessee Governor Bill Lee stated their intention to rename the airport in Parton’s honor. This move aims to serve as “a lasting tribute to her indelible legacy and the generations of people she inspired across Tennessee and around the world.” The Metro Nashville Airport Authority will discuss this proposal on September 17.

Image by Seth Herald / Getty Images

Governor Lee recently spoke with Parton’s team, who expressed their appreciation for the proposal. Lee remarked, “Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state. From her rural mountain home in East Tennessee to global stages, Dolly carried the Volunteer Spirit with her. It is fitting that Nashville International Airport would bear the name of our state’s favorite daughter.”

The petition to rename the airport, started over a year ago, has gathered more than 160,000 signatures. Support has also come from a Nashville City Council member and a Tennessee state representative.

Parton, known as the “Queen of Country,” passed away surrounded by loved ones following a short battle with cancer. Her death prompted tributes from fans, celebrities, and politicians worldwide. Known for her music and beyond, her extravagant hairdos, Southern charm, wit, and generosity left a mark on generations. Parton was also a successful businesswoman and philanthropist. She created the Dollywood Foundation, which provides property relief and educational programs in East Tennessee, and the Imagination Library, which sends free books to children around the globe.