Country music legend Dolly Parton dies at 80, Trump orders week of mourning

US President Donald Trump expressed sorrow over the passing of country music icon Dolly Parton, who had died at the age of 80. In a post on social media platform Truth Social, Trump hailed Parton as one of the greatest country singers and emphasized her unique talent, stating that there will never be another like her. To honor her memory, Trump announced that American flags across the United States would be flown at half-staff for one week, starting that evening.

Tributes from politicians and fans alike continued to pour in following Parton's death. Tennessee officials, in particular, praised her contributions to the state, describing her as a talented entertainer and entrepreneur who played a pivotal role in transforming Tennessee's economy. She was also celebrated for her philanthropic work, notably her Imagination Library program, which promoted childhood literacy by providing free books to children across the nation.

Despite her influence, Parton remained largely politically neutral, declining offers of prestigious awards due to her husband's health issues. She consistently advocated for LGBTQ+ rights and criticized discriminatory laws. Parton and her husband had been married for nearly six decades before his death in 2025. She had previously turned down an opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, citing her husband's health.

Throughout her life, Parton had consistently prioritized her music and efforts to bring people together over political aspirations.