Wreath-laying in recognition of musician John Prine to be held on April 7

MUHLENBERG COUNTY, Ky. – The Friends of John Prine Memorial Park will host a wreath-laying and short remembrance service in honor of Hall of Fame singer-songwriter John Prine at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 7. The event will be located at Rochester Dam on the Green River.

Prine died on the same day in 2020 from complications of COVID-19, according to a release by the group.

Prine was born on October 10, 1946, in Maywood, Illinois. Prine’s parents were Muhlenberg County natives, and he spent considerable time in the county throughout his lifetime, particularly the community of Paradise, the release states. His 1970 song, “Paradise,” was written for his father and is a lasting tribute to the long-gone community.

The ceremony will include a wreath-laying at the “Tree of Forgiveness” in the park, brief comments and a communal singing of Prine’s most cherished song, according to the release.

John Prine Memorial Park at Rochester Dam was dedicated on October 1, 2022 to offer a lasting tribute to Prine’s contribution and legacy.

Improvements to the park are ongoing through consultation and cooperation of Muhlenberg County Fiscal Court, which owns the property. The park is also home to the Annual Prine Birthday Bash, which is set for October 12, 2024.

John Prine Memorial Park at Rochester Dam is located on Boat Ramp Lane in Drakesboro, Kentucky.