Global superstar, entrepreneur and philanthropist Dolly Parton died just weeks after cutting the ribbon on her latest venture, a sprawling travel center and truck stop in her home state of Tennessee.
Parton died on Tuesday at the age of 80.
In late June, Parton participated in the grand opening of Dolly's Tennessean Travel Stop off Interstate 65 in Cornersville. It previously was known as the Tennessean Travel Stop before Parton's involvement.
At the time of the opening, Parton said, ""Well, the doors are open and I could not be prouder. Whether you are hauling loads, hauling the family, or just passing through, we built this place for you. Good food, real rest, a little music, and people who are genuinely glad you stopped in…that’s what the road has always deserved, and that is what you will find here. Welcome home."
She said she was inspired to lend her name to the travel center after having spent so much time on the road as an entertainer.
In a statement, Parton's family said, "“Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”
