United States President Donald Trump has expressed sadness over the death of country music legend Dolly Parton, describing her passing as a significant loss to millions of people.
Trump also ordered that American flags across the United States be flown at half-staff for one week in honour of the late singer.
The President announced the decision in a message posted on his Truth Social account on Tuesday and subsequently shared by the White House on X.
Trump said Parton was one of the greatest country music performers of all time, adding that her death had left a void that could not easily be filled.
“Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people,” Trump wrote.
He added, “There has never been anyone like her, and never will. In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM.”
Trump concluded his tribute by saying, “Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
Parton died at the age of 80, according to an announcement by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, on Instagram on Tuesday.
Seaver said the family had anticipated the difficulty of losing the music icon but that the reality of her death was still overwhelming.
“I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now,” he said.
“It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness,” Seaver added.
Born on January 19, 1946, in Tennessee, Parton grew up as the fourth of 12 children in a poor family. She began performing as a child and moved to Nashville after secondary school in pursuit of a career in music.
Her professional career began to take shape with the release of her debut album, Hello, I’m Dolly, in 1967.
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Parton became one of the most influential figures in country music, selling more than 100 million records worldwide.
She was widely recognised for songs such as Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You, and earned 11 Grammy Awards during her career.
Beyond music, Parton was also an accomplished actress and entrepreneur, appearing in films including 9 to 5, Steel Magnolias and Joyful Noise.
She also founded the Dollywood Foundation’s Imagination Library, a programme focused on promoting early childhood literacy by providing books to children.
Parton’s business interests extended to Dollywood, a major theme park in Tennessee, alongside television productions and other ventures.
Her death has prompted tributes from fans and public figures across the world, with many celebrating her contributions to music, entertainment and philanthropy.
