Trump mourns Dolly Parton, orders US flags lowered

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United States President Donald Trump has mourned the death of country music icon, Dolly Parton, describing her death as a “true loss for millions of people.”

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In honour of the late icon, the president ordered American flags across the country to be lowered for one week.

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Trump made this known in a post on his Truth Social account on Tuesday, which was also shared by the White House on its X handle.

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“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.

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“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. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you. President DONALD J. TRUMP,” he added.

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Trump’s statement followed reports of Parton’s death at the age of 80.

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Parton, who rose from humble beginnings in Tennessee to become one of country music’s most celebrated singer-songwriters, had a career spanning more than six decades.

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She sold more than 100 million records globally and became known as the “Queen of Country”, with hits including “Jolene”, “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You”.

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Parton wrote more than 3,000 songs and won 11 Grammy Awards. She was also an actor, appearing in films including 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Steel Magnolias and Joyful Noise.

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Born on January 19, 1946, in a two-room log cabin in Tennessee, Parton was the fourth of 12 children. She began performing as a child and moved to Nashville after graduating from high school in 1964 to pursue a career in music.

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She released her debut album, Hello, I’m Dolly, in 1967 and later established herself as a successful solo performer and songwriter.

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Parton also built a business empire that included television specials, food products and Dollywood, the Tennessee theme park she acquired an interest in and renamed in 1986.

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Beyond music and acting, she was known for her philanthropy, particularly through the Dollywood Foundation’s Imagination Library, which promotes childhood literacy.

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Parton’s death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, on Instagram on Tuesday.

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“I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now.

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“It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness,” Seaver said.

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