A leadership lesson for Nigeria from Dolly Parton, By Dakuku Peterside

Dolly Parton, the renowned singer, has been laid to rest alongside her late husband, Carl Dean, at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum in Nashville, Tennessee. This private family funeral took place on Friday, following Parton's death earlier in the week at the age of 80. Her great-niece, Lainey Parton, shared an emotional tribute a day after the burial, expressing her feelings of disbelief and gratitude for Parton's unwavering support.

Lainey remembered how Parton always made her feel like she belonged, believing in her dreams, and helping her achieve them. The obituary published by Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum praised Parton's timeless music, songwriting, wit, warmth, and kindness, emphasizing her impact on multiple generations of artists and fans. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to support Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, a program that provides free books to young children.

Following Parton's death, several tributes were held, including a concert at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry House, where her niece, Jada Star, performed. Additionally, Tennessee's governor announced plans to name Nashville International Airport after Parton, and her song "9 to 5" is set to become the number one single in the UK following her passing.