India, Aug. 27 -- Fans of country music icon Dolly Parton gathered at Dollywood to celebrate the singer's life and the deep connection she forged with her Appalachian roots, following her death at the age of 80.
Fans Return to a Place Close to Parton's Heart
For many visitors, arriving at the Tennessee theme park was a personal act of remembrance. Rebekah Donchatz and her sister said they had long promised each other that they would travel to Dollywood when Parton died.
The sisters visited a full-size replica of the modest two-room cabin in Locust Ridge where Parton grew up with her 11 siblings. The exhibit contains original family possessions and offers visitors a glimpse into the singer's early life.
Donchatz, who grew up in Appalachi...