Dollywood's Heartfelt Tribute to Dolly Parton's Last Wish

Dolly Parton's theme park has provided an update on what they're doing next, following the country music legend's tragic death. Parton opened the attraction back in May 1986, intending to create a "Smoky Mountain fairy land" in her home region, as she explained in an interview with Barbara Walters four years prior. Parton also hoped that the opportunity would bring jobs and money into the local economy.

The 'Jolene' singer's sad passing was announced on Tuesday (August 25) , mere days after she'd admitted there were "so many things" that she wanted to achieve. The 80-year-old had provided fans with a health update to People on Friday, admitting that she didn't pay much attention to her "issues" while caring for her husband, who died in March 2025 . Her publicist has since stated that Parton was in a "brief battle with cancer" prior to her death.

Dolly Parton died on Tuesday (August 25), following a health battle. Credit: Jason Kempin/Getty Images Dollywood announces plans going forward Parton's theme park, Dollywood, has since clarified what they plan to do going forward, following the Tennessee legend's death. Now that their Dreamer-in-Chief is no longer with them, park staff are mourning her death, though they plan to remain open.