Trump orders US flags to half-staff for a week honoring Dolly Parton

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump ordered US flags to be flown at half-staff across the country in honor of Dolly Parton, following the announcement of the country music legend's death.

Parton's family announced her death in a video statement on social media Tuesday. She was 80.

Trump addressed Parton's death in a post on Truth Social, calling it a "true loss for millions of people" and praising her as one of the greatest country singers.

"In her honor, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM," Trump wrote.

Trump, Clinton and Schumer mourn Dolly Parton

Parton's passing also drew an outpouring of tributes from Washington, with political figures on both sides of the aisle honoring her legacy.

Former President Bill Clinton also remembered Parton as "one of a kind," praising her work. He wrote, "Dolly Parton was one of a kind—a great songwriter and performer who told the stories of everyday Americans with honesty, humility, and heart."

"She rose high from her East Tennessee roots and never forgot where she came from. And she always believed in giving back, especially in her efforts to promote literacy."

He further added, "Hillary and I were big fans and first saw her in 1974, and will always be grateful for the music and the memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, her legion of fans, and everyone who loved her."

Rep Tim Burchett called Parton one of Tennessee's greatest ambassadors, writing, "Today, Tennessee lost one of our greatest ambassadors in Dolly Parton. Her music inspired generations of Americans, and her philanthropic work helped provide greater access to education for countless young Tennesseans. She represented the very best of the American Dream, and her legacy will live on for generations to come. Rest in peace, Dolly."

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer joined the tributes, describing Parton as “a true legend and a force for good.”

New York's mayor, firebrand socialist Zohran Mamdani, said Parton's passing was "truly heartbreaking."

Dolly Parton's music career and lasting legacy

Parton wrote hundreds of songs during a career that spanned decades, including 'Jolene,' 'Coat of Many Colors' and 'I Will Always Love You.'

Her music has generated more than 100 million in worldwide sales and more than 1 billion online streams, according to the Associated Press.

Beyond music, Parton was known for her philanthropy and business ventures, including the Dollywood theme park in Tennessee and her Imagination Library education initiative, which provides free books to children.