Dollywood, a popular theme park named after and co-owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, has released a statement following the news of her passing.
“With heavy hearts, the Dollywood family mourns the passing of our beloved Dreamer-in-Chief, Dolly Parton,” the company said in a statement. “Everyone at Dollywood shares the sorrow of countless people around the world touched by Dolly’s warmth, wisdom, and generous spirit. 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 park also announced that it will be open on Wednesday, Aug. 26, which is one day after she died.
“In her spirit, Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle — ‘the show must go on,’” the statement continued. “Together, we honor her by carrying forward her message of love, perseverance and hope.”
According to Variety, there was an influx of people trying to buy tickets online, but the site was glitching because the website became overloaded after the news of her passing. “We are currently experiencing abnormally high volume,” a message on dollyparton.com says. “We appreciate your patience and hope to be back online shortly.”
News of Parton’s passing broke on Tuesday, Aug. 25, with her nephew and security guard sharing a message to her Instagram page.
Dollywood President Pays Tribute To Dolly Parton
Eugene Naughton, the Dollywood Parks & Resorts President, also shared a statement of his own, remebering the legendary singer.
“The greatest privilege of my life has been helping Dolly bring her dreams to life at Dollywood,” he 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.”
Fans Share Heartwarming Memories Of Dollywood In Honor Of Dolly Parton
Under the statement shared by Dollywood, over 22 comments were left, with people paying tribute and remembering their time at Dollywood.
“The first time I went to Dollywood, I knew something was different at the park. Every employee I met was so positive, so upbeat. Many of them I talked to told me they had been working there for decades. Finally I asked an older ride operator what was in the water at this place – ‘It’s not the water. It’s Dolly. We do it for her.’ Dolly Parton brought out the best in all of us. 🦋 ♥️,” one person wrote.
“We’ve only been to Dollywood once, and one of our favorite memories was hearing from one of the employees about a time Dolly provided her with housing after she lost her home. She finished her story with ‘I have a great boss!’ Incredible how many lives she touched, to say she will be missed would be a massive understatement. 🦋❤️,” another person posted.
