President Trump has directed that all American flags be lowered to half-staff for a week to commemorate the life of Dolly Parton, the iconic country music star and philanthropist who passed away Tuesday at the age of 80 in Nashville, Tennessee.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his condolences, writing: "Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away." He called her death a "true loss for millions of people" and added, "There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM." He concluded, "Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you."
Parton's publicity team, True Public Relations, confirmed her peaceful passing and released a statement: "A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family."
Her nephew and former head of security, Bryan Seaver, paid an emotional tribute in a video message, saying his aunt "never saw a door she couldn't open" and that "the doors she opened made and changed history." He added, "My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you. She has always been on your television, your record player, your CD and on your phone playlist, becoming an extended part of your family whether you liked it or not. Our family and the team she has entrusted with her legacy will work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever."
Parton's storied career included 11 Grammy Awards, three Emmy Awards, and an honorary Oscar last year. She was also nominated for six Golden Globes, two Academy Awards, and a Tony Award. In 2006, she was honored as a Kennedy Center honoree.
Notably, Parton reportedly declined the Presidential Medal of Freedom three times—twice during Trump's first term, citing her husband Carl Dean's illness and the COVID-19 pandemic, and once during President Biden's term, where she expressed a desire to avoid the appearance of partisanship. This decision underscores her efforts to remain above political fray, a stance that has endeared her to fans across the spectrum.
Political leaders from both sides of the aisle offered tributes. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee (R) wrote on X: "Rare is the one who climbs to the pinnacle of fame, then scoffs at its allure only to retain the genuine humility that defines them. Dolly Parton was one of a kind, who loved people, her work, her family, and her Lord. Tennessee has forever been changed — enhanced — by her, and will never be quite the same without Dolly." Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) also announced that his state would lower flags in her honor.
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) called Parton "one of the great entertainers of our era," adding, "She was not only a talented musician & songwriter, but a lifelong philanthropist and advocate for literacy, education, LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare and disaster relief. Her music and humanity touched millions. She will be sorely missed."
Parton's legacy extends beyond music into philanthropy, with her Imagination Library program distributing millions of books to children. Her death marks the end of an era, but her influence on country music and American culture remains indelible.
