Following her passing on 25 August 2026, leisure operators, industry bodies and cultural organisations across the world have issued statements reflecting on the life and work of Dolly Parton.
First entering the theme park sector in 1985 through a partnership with Herschend to redevelop Silver Dollar City, Tennessee, into Dollywood, Parton built a multi-destination resort that became a hallmark of regional tourism in the Smoky Mountains. Representatives from across the location-based entertainment and music sectors have come together to share memories of her influence as an operator, partner, and creative visionary.
Resort leaders at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, expressed profound sadness while reaffirming their commitment to carrying forward Parton’s vision. In accordance with her wishes, the resort confirmed that it will remain open as scheduled, reflecting her personal conviction that the destination should remain a place of joy, hope and togetherness.
Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President, described working alongside Parton as the greatest privilege of his life. “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 honoured 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.”
Decades of resort development
Theme park operator Herschend recalled a partnership that spans over four decades, beginning in 1985 with the creation of Dollywood Theme Park. The collaboration expanded over the years to encompass Dollywood’s Splash Country in 2001, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa in 2015, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort in 2023, and Dolly’s Songteller Hotel in 2026.
Herschend Chief Executive Officer Andrew Wexler highlighted her lasting influence on park staff and visitors. “Dolly Parton was a once-in-a-generation partner whose humour, vision, and talent were unmistakable, but it was her heart for people, especially our guests and our hosts, that left the deepest mark,” Wexler stated. “That spirit lives on not just in the destinations we built together, but in how we treat one another, our guests, and the communities we serve. We are incredibly grateful for her partnership and are committed to carrying her spirit with us in everything we do.”
Herschend Chairman Chris Herschend noted that the partnership was built on shared values of faith, humility and community service. “When our family began working with Dolly in the 1980s, it became clear early on that we shared more than a vision; we shared a foundation of faith, humility, and a belief that business should serve a greater purpose,” Herschend remarked. “Dolly brought heart and conviction into every part of the work, and her presence made it better, more joyful, more meaningful, more grounded in love. She shaped our story in lasting ways, and we will always treasure the memories we helped make together.”
Global sector recognition
Trade association IAAPA acknowledged Parton’s widespread impact on the global attractions industry, noting her 1986 partnership with Herschend as a landmark moment in regional resort creation. What began as a shared vision grew into one of America’s most visited theme park destinations. IAAPA, which inducted Parton into the IAAPA Hall of Fame in 2025, extended condolences to her family, colleagues, and the wider Herschend and Dollywood teams.
Cultural leaders also paid tribute to her wider achievements. Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, highlighted her lifelong commitment to equal opportunities and literacy. “Dolly Parton’s legacy is not celebrity, but humanity,” Young stated. “She was a champion of equality and literacy. She was a picture of dignity, even when dressed outrageously. Anyone who seeks to be more like Dolly is on the right track, but they’ll never get to the finish line. She came from poverty to become the most important native of Tennessee. She shared her fortunes for the good of all of us, and shared her soul in every note she sang.”
The Academy of Country Music said that Dolly “leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the stage”.
Damon Whiteside, CEO Emeritus of the organisation, recalled collaborating with Parton during recent awards events and her receipt of the ACM Poet’s Award. “Quite simply, there will never be another Dolly Parton,” Whiteside said. “While our hearts are heavy, her incomparable spirit lives on through her music, her boundless legacy, and the endless inspiration she leaves behind. We will always love Dolly.”
Organisations across the sector encouraged those wishing to honour Parton’s memory to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the literacy initiative she founded and remained deeply passionate about throughout her lifetime.
Pictures: Dollywood
