Los Angeles [US], August 29 (ANI): Nashville could soon have an airport named after one of Tennessee’s most beloved stars. Three days after the death of the 80-year-old country music icon Dolly Parton, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced plans to rename Nashville International Airport in her honor, Variety reported.
“Dolly Parton’s extraordinary life is forever woven into the fabric of our state. The singer had a long connection with Tennessee through her music and charitable work, including the Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library. She understood that dignity, kindness and opportunity should never be defined by where you come from or your socioeconomic status. Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell also backed the proposal.
Calling Parton “Tennessee’s favorite daughter,” Lee said the airport would be a fitting place to honor her life and work. At a place where Tennessee welcomes the world, it is fitting that Nashville International Airport would bear the name of our state’s favorite daughter and greet travelers with the enduring legacy of Dolly’s music, generosity, faith and kindness,” he said. Parton’s team is aware of the proposal and supports continuing talks about the possible name change, according to the statement. Doug Kreulen, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, said Parton’s legacy was closely linked to the welcoming spirit of Nashville. He said, “Dolly’s remarkable legacy reminds us that what makes Nashville special is our ability to welcome people from every walk of life. He recalled Parton’s plans for a hotel and museum in the city and said the airport could now become another way for the city to honor her.
