Trump mourns Dolly Parton, orders US flags lowered nationwide after country music icon dies
President Donald Trump ordered American flags lowered across the United States for one week Tuesday, as he mourned the death of country music icon Dolly Parton, telling the legendary singer, "The World loves you."
Parton died peacefully Tuesday in Nashville, Tennessee, according to an announcement shared by her representatives. She was 80.
"Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will."
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Trump then announced a presidential tribute to Parton.
"In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM," Trump wrote. "Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you."
Trump's tribute came as Parton's family and representatives remembered a woman whose influence stretched far beyond the country music stages that made her famous.
"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," the announcement said. "Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience."
Parton, born Jan. 19, 1946, had a seven-decade career spanning music, songwriting, acting, writing and philanthropy.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Carl Thomas Dean, who died in 2025, as well as her mother, Avie Lee Caroline Owens, and father, Robert Lee Parton Sr., according to the announcement.
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At Parton's request, a small, private service will be held for immediate family. Fans and friends were encouraged to pay tribute on social media or through Parton's official website.
In lieu of flowers, the family asked for donations to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.
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Parton's nephew and head of security, Bryan Seaver, also shared a video message following her death.
Tributes quickly poured in from Tennessee and across the country.
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"There are no words to adequately express the sorrow our family and indeed, all Tennesseans, feel in the loss of Dolly Parton," Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., wrote on X. "An iconic leader who loved our great state and nation. Her passing leaves a void that no one can ever fill. Dolly, we will always love you."
House Republicans called Parton "an American icon" and "a national treasure," praising her as "a legendary artist, a generous philanthropist, and a proud daughter of Tennessee whose music and spirit touched generations of Americans."
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Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., remembered Parton as "an incredible East Tennessean" who "never changed her accent or forgot where she came from."
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced his state would also lower its flags in Parton's honor.
"So sad to lose this legend," Abbott wrote on X. "Texas will lower our flags in her honor. God Bless Dolly."
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said "America has lost a true national treasure," pointing to Parton's Tennessee roots, worldwide success and philanthropy.
"Dolly Parton’s unmistakable voice, joyful spirit, and remarkable generosity touched generations of Americans and many others around the world," Johnson wrote. "From the mountains of Tennessee to stages across the globe, she never forgot where she came from, and she used her extraordinary success to lift up countless others."
The Department of the Interior paid tribute to Parton's deep connection to her Tennessee roots and the Great Smoky Mountains.
"Dolly Parton carried the music, stories and spirit of her Tennessee mountain home wherever she went," the department said. "She was a lifelong champion of the Great Smoky Mountains and proudly shared her love for them with the world."
The Franklin Police Department also mourned the singer, saying her "roots and heart were always deeply connected to Tennessee."
Parton's family said the music and generosity that defined her extraordinary life would endure.
"Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages," the announcement said, "and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact."