KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — Organizations closely connected to Dolly Parton’s life and legacy are honoring her memory in different ways following the death of the Queen of Country Music at age 80.
While Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital has canceled a planned celebration so staff and families can mourn her passing, Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, and Pirates Voyage say they will remain open in accordance with Parton’s wishes.
Children’s Hospital Cancels Jubilee
Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital announced Tuesday that it is canceling the Jubilee event scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 26.
“In light of today’s news, we are cancelling the Jubilee planned for Wednesday, Aug. 26, at Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital as we take the necessary time to mourn Dolly’s passing,” the hospital said in a statement.
Matt C. Schaefer, President and CEO of Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, said Parton’s influence will continue to guide the hospital’s mission.
“Dolly’s legacy of love and hope will continue to inspire us and the countless children and families whose lives she has touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time. In Dolly’s memory, we will help bring more hope, more comfort and more healing to children and families.”
The hospital has become one of the most visible reminders of Parton’s lifelong commitment to helping children and families throughout East Tennessee.
Stampede and Pirates Voyage to Remain Open
In Pigeon Forge, officials with Dolly Parton’s Stampede and Pirates Voyage remembered Parton as an “extraordinary artist and visionary partner.”
The company noted that nearly 40 years ago it partnered with Parton to create entertainment venues that have welcomed millions of guests, created jobs, and strengthened local communities.
“Working alongside Dolly Parton over the years has been one of the great honors of our company’s history,” said Jack Lawrence, CEO of World Choice Investments.
“Our partnership was built on a shared commitment to creating meaningful, memorable experiences for families. Dolly’s vision elevated everything she touched, but it was her kindness and genuine love for people that left the greatest impression on all of us. Her legacy will continue to guide how we serve our guests and carry forward the traditions we built together.”
Memorial displays have been established at:
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede in Pigeon Forge
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede in Branson
- Pirates Voyage in Myrtle Beach
- Pirates Voyage in Panama City Beach
Officials said it was Parton’s wish that the venues remain open so families would have a place to gather, remember her life, and celebrate the memories she helped create.
“Dolly was also famous for her tireless work ethic,” the statement said. “As Dolly said, ‘the show must go on,’ and we will honor her wishes.”
Dollywood Mourns Its “Dreamer-in-Chief”
At Dollywood, officials described Parton as the park’s beloved “Dreamer-in-Chief.”
The theme park released a statement saying employees and leadership share in the grief felt by countless fans around the world.
“Dolly’s heartfelt wish was that Dollywood always remain a place of joy, hope and togetherness, a space where families and friends could honor her memory, not with silence, but with laughter, music and shared dreams,” the statement said.
Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton reflected on his years working alongside Parton.
“The greatest privilege of my life has been helping Dolly bring her dreams to life at Dollywood,” Naughton said. “Dolly’s heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds. She inspired generations to dream boldly and love deeply.”
“While we grieve her loss, we are honored and committed to carry her light forward. Her legacy will continue to shine in every melody sung, every smile shared and every dream kindled within these gates.”
Dollywood confirmed it will be open Wednesday, saying the decision reflects Parton’s lifelong work ethic and belief in perseverance.
Continuing Dolly’s Legacy
Organizations connected to Parton are also encouraging those who wish to honor her memory to support a cause she held especially close to her heart: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
The literacy program, founded by Parton to provide free books to children, has become one of her most enduring charitable legacies.
As East Tennessee mourns the loss of its most famous daughter, the institutions that bear her name say they remain committed to carrying forward the values she championed throughout her life: love, hope, education, generosity, and service to others.
For many across the region, Dolly Parton may be gone, but her influence will continue through the children she inspired, the families she helped, and the dreams she encouraged others to pursue.
