President Donald Trump directed the lowering of American flags nationwide for a week to honor Dolly Parton, who passed away at 80 in Nashville, Tennessee. Trump expressed his condolences on Truth Social, praising Parton as an unparalleled country music icon.
Trump paid tribute by saying, “In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
Parton’s representatives highlighted her extensive influence beyond music. Her career included songwriting, acting, and philanthropy. Her legacy, they said, is built on love, compassion, and resilience.
“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,” they stated.
Born on January 19, 1946, Parton enjoyed a seven-decade career marked by her music, acting, and more. Her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, predeceased her in 2025.
Parton’s family will hold a private service at her request. Fans are encouraged to honor her through social media or her official website. Donations to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library are preferred instead of flowers.
Prominent figures from Tennessee and beyond expressed their sorrow. Sen. Marsha Blackburn noted, “There are no words to adequately express the sorrow our family and indeed, all Tennesseans, feel in the loss of Dolly Parton.” Many described her as an iconic leader and a proud Tennessean whose impact will remain unparalleled.
Moreover, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced lowering flags in her honor. Numerous tributes mentioned Parton’s unwavering connection to her roots in Tennessee and her generous heart.
The Department of the Interior remembered Parton’s dedication to her Tennessee roots and her lasting connection to the Great Smoky Mountains. Parton’s songs and philanthropic contributions leave a lasting impact, as her family reflected.