"""

Dolly Parton laid to rest in Nashville

Dolly Parton was buried in Nashville on Friday after a private family ceremony following her death at 80 earlier this week. The artist’s remains were placed at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Tennessee, next to her late husband, Carl Dean.

Messages shared by members of her family after the burial showed that Parton was remembered not only for her music career, but also for her place within the family. Her great-niece Lainey Parton described the star on social media as someone who formed a strong bond with relatives despite never having children of her own.

What were the family’s messages and memorial details?

Highlights from Lainey Parton’s post

Lainey Parton said the famous singer had instilled confidence in her since childhood, never dismissed her dreams, and supported her during her path to beauty school. Relatives said Parton is remembered within the family for being protective and encouraging.

  • Family members said Parton supported the ambitions of younger relatives.
  • Posts emphasized that, because of her affection and closeness, she was seen as a grandmother figure within the family.

A memorial message released by Woodlawn Memorial Park also highlighted Parton’s timeless songs and prolific songwriting, as well as her wit, warmth and kindness. The family asked that, instead of flowers, donations be made to Imagination Library, Parton’s project that provides free books to young children.

In images shared by Nashville journalist Amelia Young, flowers and a condolence book could be seen around the grave. The burial site also includes a brass plaque with Parton and Dean’s names, along with engravings referencing the couple’s childhood homes.

Tributes extended beyond Nashville

Night of respect held at the Grand Ole Opry

On Saturday, Parton’s niece Jada Star performed at the tribute concert held at the Grand Ole Opry House, one of country music’s most iconic venues. Star sang The Orchard, a track she recorded with her aunt in 2024 for the album Smoky Mountain DNA: Family, Faith and Fables.

Jelly Roll made a surprise appearance at the end of the night and joined a group performance of 9 to 5. Among the artists taking part was Carly Pearce, who once performed at Parton’s Dollywood theme park early in her career before later winning a Grammy.

Meanwhile, Tennessee’s governor announced plans to name Nashville International Airport after Parton. In the United Kingdom, 9 to 5 was climbing toward the top of the weekly chart after a surge in streams following the singer’s death, though it remained unclear whether it would hold its position in the final rankings to be announced on Friday because broadcast play had declined.

"""