Nashville International Airport could be renamed in honor of country music legend Dolly Parton under a proposal announced Friday by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. The governor's office stated that Lee has already discussed the potential name change with representatives for Parton.
In a statement, Lee said, "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." The proposal aims to honor Parton, a native Tennessean who became a globally recognized icon for her music, acting, and philanthropy.
The potential renaming would require the Metro Nashville Airport Authority to review its current naming policy. The policy stipulates that airport properties should only be named for individuals who have been deceased for at least two years. The governor's office confirmed that the proposal and the existing naming policy are scheduled for discussion at the airport authority's meeting on September 17.
Parton, born in poverty in the Great Smoky Mountains, rose to prominence with hit songs like "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You." She also achieved success in Hollywood with roles in films such as "9 to 5" and "Steel Magnolias." The online petition supporting the airport's renaming in her honor garnered over 150,000 signatures.