As Tennesseans mourn the death of country music legend Dolly Parton, ideas for how the state can permanently honor “Tennessee’s favorite daughter” are circulating at the State Capitol.
State Sen. Jessie Seal, R-New Tazewell, announced plans to propose a bill designating Sept. 25 as “9 to 5 Day” in honor of Parton's life and legacy.
“While every day is a fitting day to honor Dolly, ‘9 to 5 Day’ will give Tennesseans an opportunity each year to set aside a little extra time to listen to one of her most iconic songs and reflect on the once-in-a-century legend," Seal said.
Seal announced plans to file legislation for lawmakers to consider next year.
“Not only will her music stand the test of time, but so will her legacy of faith and kindness,” Seal
said. “She embodied the true Volunteer State spirit like no other.”
In a statement Aug. 26, Deputy House Speaker Jason Zachary pledged that the legislature will work to “find a lasting and meaningful way to honor her legacy and significant contributions to our state.”
Gov. Bill Lee designated Parton’s 80th birthday, January 19, as Dolly Parton Day this year. Lawmakers also this year designated segments of U.S. Highway 411 and U.S. Highway 25W in Sevier and Cocke counties as “Dolly Parton Parkway.”
Support for a petition to rename the Nashville International Airport has surged since Parton’s death on Aug. 25.
Discussion of placing a statue of Dolly on Capitol Hill – an honor Parton graciously declined in 2021 – has resurfaced, and earned the support of multiple lawmakers, including retiring Lt. Gov. Randy McNally.
Retiring Rep. Jeremy Faison said a bust of Parton should be placed in the Capitol Rotunda – in one of three alcoves that are currently vacant.
“Even though I won’t be serving there next year, I’d love to see one of those spaces filled with someone who represents the very best of Tennessee:@DollyParton,” Faison said.
Conservative radio host Matt Murphy called the idea “an absolute no brainer.”
“Few Tennesseans have lived out the heart, spirit, generosity, and story of our state to the world quite like Dolly, and the Capitol would look better with a statue commemorating her,” Faison said. “Put Dolly in an alcove.”
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: '9 to 5 Day'? Lawmakers to consider Sept. 25 for Dolly Parton tribute
