Trump orders US flags lowered as world icons mourn Dolly Parton
By Francis Muli, August 25, 2026US President Donald Trump has ordered American flags to be lowered across the country for one week in honour of country music legend Dolly Parton, as tributes continue to pour in from some of the biggest names in music, film, politics and popular culture.
Trump announced the decision on Tuesday, August 25, shortly after Parton’s death at the age of 80 was confirmed by her family.
“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 said in a statement.
“There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”
He said the American flag would be lowered throughout the United States for one week beginning at 6pm on Tuesday, adding: “Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”
Parton, who died peacefully in Nashville, Tennessee, had enjoyed a career spanning seven decades, becoming one of the most influential figures in country music while also building a successful career in film, business and philanthropy.
Her death immediately triggered an international outpouring of grief, with fellow entertainers remembering not only her music but also her generosity, humour and ability to connect with people across generations.
Reba McEntire mourns ‘my buddy Dolly’
Country music star Reba McEntire was among the first major artists to publicly mourn Parton.
McEntire described her as her “buddy” and thanked her for the love and music she had given the world.
“There will never ever be another you,” McEntire said in a tribute shared on social media, while recalling their first meeting and their final conversation.
She said Parton’s music, generosity and memories would continue to be cherished by those who knew and admired her.
Kacey Musgraves: ‘The world feels a lot less sparkly’
Country singer Kacey Musgraves also expressed her grief, saying Parton’s death had suddenly made the world feel different.
“The world feels a lot less sparkly all of a sudden,” Musgraves wrote.
She also expressed comfort that Parton was reunited with her husband, Carl Dean, who died in March 2025 after nearly six decades of marriage.
“So glad she’s with her Carl Dean. No one talk to me today,” Musgraves added.
Kelsea Ballerini described Parton as her “East Tennessee angel”, thanking her for the “magic and butterflies, acceptance and joy and music” she brought to the world.
Lily Tomlin remembers a lifelong friend
Hollywood actress Lily Tomlin, who starred alongside Parton and Jane Fonda in the 1980 hit film 9 to 5, was also among those paying tribute.
Tomlin described Parton as a friend, songwriter and “The Great Harmonizer of Humanity”, ending her tribute with “Dolly. Dolly. Dolly. Forever Dolly.”
The two worked together on one of Parton’s most memorable Hollywood projects, with the film’s title song becoming another of the singer’s signature hits.
Dionne Warwick: ‘A true child of God’
Veteran singer Dionne Warwick described Parton as a “true child of God” while mourning the loss of a fellow music icon.
Warwick said she would miss Parton’s laughter, jokes and personality, describing her death as the loss of a treasured friend.
Hollywood stars join the tributes
Tributes have also come from across Hollywood.
Actress Jamie Lee Curtis described Parton as her “hero”, while Keke Palmer said she was “devastated” by the news.
Seth MacFarlane, who worked with Parton on The Orville, praised her kindness, generosity and authenticity.
Sarah Jessica Parker also remembered Parton as one of the greatest Americans, highlighting her humanitarian work and particularly her Imagination Library literacy initiative.
Khloé Kardashian described Parton as a “once-in-a-lifetime soul”, saying her talent, humanity and generosity had changed the world.
“She was one of those people,” Kardashian said, describing Parton as an extraordinary person whose legacy would endure.
Parton’s legacy beyond music
Parton’s influence extended well beyond her recordings.
She sold more than 100 million records and was known globally for songs including Jolene, I Will Always Love You and 9 to 5. She also starred in films including 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias, established the Dollywood theme park and founded the Imagination Library, which provides books to young children.
Her philanthropy became one of the most important parts of her public legacy.
The Imagination Library grew into an international literacy programme, while Parton also supported healthcare, disaster relief and other charitable causes.
Her $1 million donation to Covid-19 vaccine research was later associated with research that helped support development of the Moderna vaccine.
Her family has asked mourners who wish to honour her memory to consider supporting the Imagination Library rather than sending flowers. A small private funeral service is expected to be held for immediate family.
‘There will never be another Dolly’
The reaction to Parton’s death has reflected the extraordinary reach of her career.
From country music stars to Hollywood actors and political leaders, tributes have focused on a woman who managed to become a global superstar without losing the warmth and identity that defined her Appalachian roots.
The Country Music Association described her as an artist who made an immeasurable impact on country music and the lives of people around the world.
For Reba McEntire, however, the loss could be summed up simply: “There will never ever be another you.”
And as the US lowers its flags in her honour, the global tributes underline the scale of Parton’s legacy, one built not only on hit songs and fame, but also on kindness, storytelling, entrepreneurship and a lifelong commitment to giving back.