- As American flags will fly at half-staff
- Tributes pour in for late Music icon
The United States President, Donald Trump has directed that US flag across the country be flown at half-mast to mourn music icon, Dolly Parton, who died aged 80
Describing her as ‘one of the greatest country singers, and far beyond, EVER’ as he paid tribute, President Trump said flags will be lowered across the country for the next week in honour of the American music legend and East Tennessee great Dolly Parton.
Her family announced on Tuesday that Parton died at the age of 80 and President Trump posted a statement on Truth Social shortly after saying that American flags would be lowered across the country beginning Tuesday, August 25 at 6 p.m. and remain at half-staff for a period of one week.
Trump described the Sevier County native “one of the greatest country singers of all time” and called her death “a true loss for millions of people.”
“Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you,” he concluded.
Recalled that in a 2021 interview with Today’s Hoda Kotb, the music maestro had revealed that she turned down the Presidential Medal of Freedom from both Trump and President Joe Biden
Expectedly, the outpouring of tributes for the country singer, songwriter and actor, after the announcement of her death began shortly after the news broke from celebrities and officials.
Lily Tomlin, Jamie Lee Curtis, Bernie Sanders and Kacey Musgraves were among those remembering the queen of country music in their special tributes for the late country singer, songwriter and actor.
News of Parton’s death was shared by her nephew on social media in a message that said: “Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus.”
Official family statement on the late music legend, who had earlier this year canceled a Las Vegas residency over health issues, said: “Our family and the team she has entrusted with her legacy will work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever”.
“Dolly was a farmer, just like her Daddy. He farmed the soil; she farmed songs and happiness.”
Parton was known for hit songs such as Jolene and I Will Always Love You, starring in films such as 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias, and her philanthropy work.
Reports indicated that famous names who knew her or were fans of her work have continued to pay her respect through their tributes:
Kacey Musgraves
“The world feels a lot less sparkly all of a sudden,” wrote the country star.
Lily Tomlin
Parton’s 9 to 5 co-star shared a picture of the pair, adding: “No words…💔”
Jamie Lee Curtis
Alongside a photo on Instagram, the Oscar-winning actor wrote: “Thank you, Dolly. For all of it.”
Bernie Sanders
In a post on X, the Vermont senator called her “one of the great entertainers of our era” but also “a lifelong philanthropist and advocate for literacy, education, LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare and disaster relief”.
Keith Urban
In an Instagram story, the country star wrote: “Heartbroken today. Honestly … I have no words right now.”
Jane Fonda
In a lengthy and emotional Instagram post, her 9 to 5 co-star wrote: “I know that millions are mourning and I want to say this – more than anyone I have ever known, Dolly will always be with us because she was so present, so powerful, so generous and playful that she is woven into all our lives and hearts forever.” She also added that she was “the voluptuous embodiment of empathy”.
Julia Roberts
Parton’s Steel Magnolias co-star shared a statement, saying: “Dolly was a magical and joyous human. I hold knowing her as a treasure in my life. The sun has dimmed today.”
Dionne Warwick
Alongside a picture of Parton and herself, the singer posted: “I will certainly miss her laughter, jokes and her being. Rest well and in total peace my friend. My heart is heavy.”
Seth Macfarlane
The actor and animator, who worked with Parton on sci-fi comedy series The Orville, wrote that the experience had been “extraordinary”. “Her kindness, generosity, and authenticity were evident from moment one, and the benign yet assured command she maintained over her empire was obvious from the genuine love and trust you could see from everyone who worked for her,” he posted online. “The world is a dimmer place today without her.”
Octavia Spencer
The Oscar-winning actor shared a post on Instagram, writing: “Dolly you were a gift to the world, your voice, your philanthropic heart, and warmth made us a feel seen and that the world was a pretty decent place. We miss you.”
Reba McEntire
The country star shared a picture of the pair on Instagram, adding: “Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart.”
Tim Cook
The Apple CEO called Parton “a brilliant songwriter, cultural icon, and dedicated philanthropist” and praised her for helping to “instill a love of reading and learning in millions of children around the world”.
Bret Michaels
The Poison singer also shared on Facebook: “Sending my deepest thoughts, prayers and condolences on the loss of the incredible Dolly Parton to her close family and friends. Dolly, you have forever added so much to our world and will forever be loved.”
Belinda Carlisle
The singer-songwriter called Parton “a light in this world” and wrote that she was “heartbroken” by the news.
