Dolly Parton spent a lifetime giving back: "Inspiring kids to read became my mission"
Musical icon Dolly Parton's influence on music and pop culture is clear. But beyond that, she was also an entrepreneur and philanthropist. Carter Evans takes a look at Dollywood, her Imagination Library and countless other donations.
Grief spread across a deeply divided America as country music icon Dolly Parton passed away on August 25, 2026. The legendary singer, beloved for her talent and gentle nature, left a nation in mourning. President Donald Trump ordered flags lowered across the United States for a week, describing her death as a "true loss for millions of people."
Trump's praise for Parton's unmatched talent and unique presence echoed across the political spectrum. Even President Trump's evangelical appointee, Mike Huckabee, expressed genuine sadness, recalling how friendly and gracious Parton was in person. Democrats, too, mourned the loss of a true legend, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stating that Parton was a "true legend and force for good."
Even celebrities outside the country music realm felt the impact of her passing, with Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane lamenting the loss of a kind and genuine person. Parton's co-star from the 1980 film 9 to 5, Lily Tomlin, remembered them both with a poignant black and white photo, simply captioning it "No words."
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- Dolly Parton's death sparks outpouring of grief in divided America gulfnews.com
- Trump mourns Dolly Parton, orders US flags lowered to half-mast dailypost.ng
- WATCH: Iconic moments from Dolly Parton’s career and her impact on music and culture abcnews.com
- Early details after Dolly Parton dies at 80 cbsnews.com
