How The Grand Ole Opry Will Honor Late Legend Dolly Parton

Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties, said in a statement that "Dolly Parton was perhaps the most loved and admired artist from her home state of Tennessee. She was also an extraordinary member of the Grand Ole Opry, and her music and sense of humor will live on for generations to come. We are so blessed to have been a part of her incredible career."

Dan Rogers, Senior Vice President and Executive Producer, Grand Ole Opry, said in a statement of his own: "Every member of the Grand Ole Opry family has a Dolly story, as does everyone around the world who was ever in her orbit. That's just one of the things that made her so special. For more than 50 years as an Opry member, she used her talent and success to bring sheer joy to millions. To every artist, she provided inspiration beyond measure. To every fan, she connected in a way that made each of us feel like the most important person in the room. Her impact will live on forever as we all carry forward the kindness, compassion and generosity she shared throughout her life. Dolly always knew exactly what to say. I'm afraid the best I have on this terribly sad day is a genuine, heartfelt, 'Thank you for everything, Dolly. We sure do love you.'"

Earlier this year, Parton reflected on her Opry induction in a caption on Instagram, which she also included in her book Star of the Show: My Life on Stage.

"I had always wanted to be a member. Back home and in country music, the epitome of success was to be on the Grand Ole Opry. To become a member was a big deal," Parton shared. "I thought back to how I'd perform on my porch at my Tennessee mountain home, imagining that one day I was going to be on the Grand Ole Opry. By becoming an official member, I would forever be associated with the Opry. It was a dream come true. And it still is."