Dolly Parton - The life of a country music icon

Dolly Parton, a renowned country music singer-songwriter, literacy advocate, and cultural icon, has died at the age of 80. According to CBS News, she passed away on August 25, 2026.

Parton was known for her wit, beauty, and musicality, which shaped country music for over six decades. She wrote hundreds of songs, including classics like "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," and "I Will Always Love You."

Following her death, US President Donald Trump ordered that American flags be flown at half-staff in her honor, a rare tribute typically reserved for politicians and public figures.

Brief written by urgent.news from The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald, Business Insider, Daily Post Nigeria, CBS News — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.