US President Donald Trump has ordered American flags across the United States to be flown at half-staff for one week in honour of country music legend Dolly Parton, following her death at the age of 80.
Newsonspot reports that Trump announced the directive in a statement mourning the singer, describing Parton as “one of the greatest Country singers” and saying her death represented “a true loss for millions of people.”
The flags are to be lowered from 6 p.m. Tuesday and remain at half-staff for one week. Trump added that there had “never been anyone like her, and never will.”
The tribute has drawn particular attention because Parton had previously declined two offers from Trump’s administration to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the United States.
Parton explained that she could not accept the first offer because her husband was ill, while she declined the second during the COVID-19 pandemic because she did not want to travel.
Throughout her career, Parton largely avoided partisan politics, choosing instead to focus on her music, philanthropy and connection with people across America. Her ability to appeal to audiences across political and cultural divides made her one of the country’s most admired entertainers.
Born into a poor family in rural Tennessee, Parton rose from humble beginnings to become a global music icon. Over a career spanning more than six decades, she wrote and recorded thousands of songs, producing timeless hits including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” “I Will Always Love You” and “Coat of Many Colors.”
Her influence extended well beyond music. She achieved success as an actress, businesswoman and entrepreneur while building a reputation for philanthropy.
One of her most notable initiatives is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides free books to children and has become a major part of her humanitarian legacy.
Parton’s charitable efforts, combined with her music and business achievements, helped establish her as a cultural figure whose influence reached far beyond country music.
Her death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, entertainers and fans around the world.
Trump, in his tribute, described Parton as “one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER,” before declaring, “The World loves you.”
The decision to lower the American flag nationwide in her honour highlights the extraordinary place Parton occupied in American culture.
From her humble Tennessee upbringing to international stardom, she built a legacy defined by music, generosity, resilience and an ability to bring people together.
Dolly Parton will be remembered not only for her remarkable songs, but also for her warmth, wit, philanthropy and enduring humanity.
