Dollywood opened today, despite the passing of iconic singer and actress Dolly Parton yesterday. Her family made the heartbreaking announcement online, sharing that she had passed at the age of 80. A matter of hours later her team revealed that the cause of death was an undisclosed but brief battle with cancer.
The theme park, named after Dolly, held a special moment of silence in tribute to the late star today, observed by staff and visitors.
About The Dollywood Tribute Today
Dollywood stood in silence for a moment today as staff folded their arms and guests looked sombre in a quiet moment of remembrance. According to PEOPLE, though the atmosphere was downcast it was a true moment of respect for the late star.
Dolly co-owned Dollywood, which has been open for over 40 years. Chatting last year while celebrating the 40th anniversary since the theme park opened its doors, Dolly reflected on what she had hoped Dollywood would become when she first launched it.
She shared: “I was just hoping that people would really want to come visit a theme park with my name on it. And even though I always try to dream big, I’ll admit I was a little bit nervous that first morning.
“But people did come out to support us that first day, and I’m so proud to see that Dollywood has continued to grow through the years to become a place of fun and togetherness for everyone who has come to visit.”
Dolly’s Family Announcing That She Passed Away
Dolly Parton’s family posted a video message to her social media profiles today announcing that she had passed away. Bryan Seaver read out the tragic news, speaking to a camera. He shared: “Hey everyone, my name is Bryan Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I am representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean.
“Sister, sis, aunt, granny to one generation, and Gigi to the next. This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, but not with Dolly.
“Dolly has lived in the light […] met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens. […] Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life , and across every continent. By her example, we believed that anything was possible.
“She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history. My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you. She has always been on your television, your record player, your CD, and your phone playlist becoming an extended part of your family.”
Rest in peace to Dolly Parton and best wishes to her loved ones.
