Joint-highest US civilian award for meritorious service
Dolly Parton has died at 80 after a storied career that spans country roots, blockbuster films, and a global business empire. Tributes pour in as the industry reflects on her songwriting, resilience, and cultural impact.
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority has voted to begin renaming Nashville International Airport in Dolly Parton’s honor. The decision follows Parton’s death and a widespread push from fans and officials. A final name will be determined, with work on signage, merchandise, and contracts expected to take time.
Boston College and Rutgers pay tribute to Welles Crowther, the man known as The Man With The Red Bandana, who died saving others on 9/11. The event includes red bandannas, a whiteout crowd and acknowledgments of Crowther’s bravery.
Margaret Hamilton has died at 90. The MIT computer scientist has led development of the onboard flight software for NASA's Apollo program, coined the phrase "software engineering," and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016. Her daughter has confirmed she died on 30 September in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Dolores Huerta has died at age 96, ending a lifetime of organizing with Cesar Chavez to improve farmworkers’ conditions. New revelations about Chavez’s abuse echoed in Huerta’s 2026 disclosure about sexual assault, highlighting the complex, painful history of the UFW and its leadership.