The Brief
- Georgia leaders, civil rights groups, and venues are honoring country music legend and philanthropist Dolly Parton following her passing.
- Gov. Brian Kemp called Parton an “American treasure,” while organizations like The Carter Center and The King Center praised her unmatched legacy of service and compassion.
- Dollywood Parks & Resorts announced the theme park will remain open as Parton wished, reminding fans that “the show must go on”
ATLANTA – Georgia leaders, civil rights organizations and local venues are paying tribute to country music icon and philanthropist Dolly Parton following the news of her passing at age 80.
Her family announced her passing on Tuesday through a social media post, honoring her legacy.
Dolly’s special connection to Georgia
The backstory:
Beyond her performances across the state, Parton held a deeply personal connection to North Georgia. On May 30, 1966, a 20-year-old Dolly Parton crossed the Tennessee state line into Ringgold, Georgia, where she married her longtime husband, Carl Dean, at Ringgold Baptist Church.
Ringgold Mayor Kelly Bomar Statement
What they’re saying:…