Nashville: Dolly Parton has been laid to rest, the music legend's great-niece has said. The singer had a private family funeral in Nashville on Friday, following her death earlier in the week at the age of 80. She has been placed next to her late husband, Carl Dean, at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in the Tennessee city.
According to Ghana Web, Lainey Parton posted an emotional tribute a day after the burial, saying: "It still doesn't feel real that she's gone. I'm going to miss her voice, her laugh, her hugs, and just knowing she was there." She referred to Parton as "granny" and expressed gratitude for the love and belief Parton showed her. Lainey remembered how Parton supported her through beauty school, emphasizing the encouragement she received.
An obituary posted by Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum highlighted Parton's impact through her music and personal warmth. It stated, "Dolly Parton's legacy is one of love, kindness, and resilience," and suggested donations to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in lieu of flowers.
Amelia Young of Nashville's NewsChannel 5 shared images of flowers and a book of condolence at Parton's tomb. Parton's niece, Jada Star, performed at a tribute concert at the Grand Ole Opry House, where she sang The Orchard, a song from an album she recorded with Parton.
The tribute concert also featured a surprise appearance by country superstar Jelly Roll and other artists, including Carly Pearce. Additionally, plans have been announced to rename Nashville International Airport in Parton's honor. Meanwhile, Parton's song 9 to 5 is gaining traction in the UK singles chart, following a surge in streaming after her passing, although its position remains uncertain.