President Trump Orders Flags Lowered in Honor of Dolly Parton Following Her Death

<p>President Donald Trump ordered American flags to be lowered across the United States for one week on August 25, 2026, as he mourned the death of country music artist Dolly Parton, stating, "The World loves you." </p><p>Parton died peacefully on August 25, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee, according to an announcement from her representatives. She was 80 years old.</p><p>"Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will." </p><p>Trump announced a presidential tribute to Parton, stating, "In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00 PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you." </p><p>Parton's family and representatives remembered her influence beyond country music. "A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family," the announcement said. "Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience." </p><p>Born on January 19, 1946, Parton had a seven-decade career spanning music, songwriting, acting, writing, and philanthropy. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Carl Thomas Dean, who died in 2025, and her parents, Avie Lee Caroline Owens and Robert Lee Parton Sr.</p><p>A small, private service will be held for immediate family at Parton's request. Fans and friends were encouraged to pay tribute on social media or through Parton's official website. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.</p><p>Parton's nephew and head of security, Bryan Seaver, shared a video message following her death. Tributes came in from Tennessee and across the country.</p><p>Senator Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., expressed her sorrow on X, stating, "There are no words to adequately express the sorrow our family and indeed, all Tennesseans, feel in the loss of Dolly Parton. An iconic leader who loved our great state and nation. Her passing leaves a void that no one can ever fill. Dolly, we will always love you." </p><p>House Republicans referred to Parton as "an American icon" and "a national treasure," praising her as "a legendary artist, a generous philanthropist, and a proud daughter of Tennessee whose music and spirit touched generations of Americans." </p><p>Representative Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., remembered Parton as "an incredible East Tennessean" who "never changed her accent or forgot where she came from." Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that Texas would also lower its flags in Parton's honor, stating, "So sad to lose this legend. Texas will lower our flags in her honor. God Bless Dolly." </p><p>House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., remarked that "America has lost a true national treasure," highlighting Parton's Tennessee roots, worldwide success, and philanthropy. He noted, "Dolly Parton’s unmistakable voice, joyful spirit, and remarkable generosity touched generations of Americans and many others around the world." </p><p>The Department of the Interior acknowledged Parton's connection to Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains, stating, "Dolly Parton carried the music, stories and spirit of her Tennessee mountain home wherever she went. She was a lifelong champion of the Great Smoky Mountains and proudly shared her love for them with the world." </p><p>The Franklin Police Department also mourned her passing, stating that her "roots and heart were always deeply connected to Tennessee." Parton's family affirmed that her music and generosity would endure, stating, "Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact." </p>