President Donald Trump paid tribute to Dolly Parton after the legendary country music star died at the age of 80 on Tuesday, Aug. 25.
Trump described Parton as “one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond” and announced that American flags would be lowered to half-staff across the country for one week in her memory.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote:
“This is a true loss for millions of people,” Trump wrote. “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. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
The president’s tribute came as an outpouring of grief and appreciation spread across the United States and around the world following the announcement of Parton’s death.
The country music icon had continued working despite facing declining health. Just four days before her death, Parton spoke with PEOPLE about her determination to keep pursuing her creative ambitions.
“Even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’!” she told PEOPLE on Friday, Aug. 21. “I’ve dreamed myself into a corner and I still have so many things I want to achieve, so I’m gonna keep on working as long as I can to see everything come to life.”
Parton’s death prompted tributes from politicians, entertainers, fans and public figures from across the country. Members of both political parties recognized not only her extraordinary career in music but also her decades of charitable work.
In Tennessee, where Parton was born and raised, elected officials highlighted the lasting impact she had on her home state. Much of the praise focused on her philanthropic efforts, particularly the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which has provided books to children and promoted early childhood literacy.
Both of Tennessee’s U.S. senators also shared memories and photographs of Parton following news of her passing.
Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., praised Parton as an exceptionally talented performer and successful businesswoman who played an important role in Tennessee’s growth.
“Dolly was talented beyond compare, and an entrepreneurial juggernaut who played an integral role in transforming our state,” Hagerty wrote on X. “She brought laughter and joy to so many through her musical and philanthropic endeavors. She will be deeply, deeply missed.”
Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., also expressed her sorrow over Parton’s death, saying that there were no words sufficient to capture the feelings of her family and people throughout Tennessee.
“An iconic leader who loved our great state and nation,” Blackburn wrote. “Her passing leaves a void that no one can ever fill. Dolly, we will always love you.”
Parton’s influence stretched far beyond country music. Over a career spanning decades, she became a celebrated singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, earning a devoted audience across generations.
She also helped transform the tourism landscape of East Tennessee through Dollywood, the amusement park she helped establish in the Great Smoky Mountains. The attraction became one of the region’s most recognizable destinations and reflected Parton’s deep connection to her Appalachian roots.
Her philanthropic legacy was equally significant. Through the Imagination Library and other charitable initiatives, Parton devoted much of her success to supporting children, education and communities.
Trump’s decision to order flags lowered to half-staff for a full week underscored the extraordinary national recognition surrounding Parton’s death. For millions of Americans, she represented far more than a country music superstar.
Her songs, personality, business achievements and charitable work made her a uniquely influential figure whose career touched music, entertainment, education and philanthropy.
As tributes continue to pour in, Parton’s legacy remains deeply connected to the generations of fans who grew up listening to her music and the countless people who benefited from her charitable work.
Dolly Parton’s impact will likely endure for generations, both through the music she created and through the humanitarian work she leaves behind.