Dolly Parton performing. Pic: BBC
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.”
In honour of the late icon, the president ordered American flags across the country to be lowered for one week.
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.
“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.
“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.
Trump’s statement followed reports of Parton’s death at the age of 80.
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.
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”.
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.
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.
She released her debut album, Hello, I’m Dolly, in 1967 and later established herself as a successful solo performer and songwriter.
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.
Beyond music and acting, she was known for her philanthropy, particularly through the Dollywood Foundation’s Imagination Library, which promotes childhood literacy.
Parton’s death was announced by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, on Instagram on Tuesday.
“I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now.
“It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness,” Seaver said.
