President Donald Trump has ordered the American flag to be flown at half-staff across the United States for one week in honour of Dolly Parton, who died on 25 August 2026 at the age of 80. The country music legend passed away just over a year after her husband Carl.
President pays tribute on Truth Social
Following the news, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "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. There has never been anyone like her, and never will."
He added: "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."
Health issues before her death
Parton's sudden death came days after she spoke to People about her health. On Friday 21 August, the publication reported her saying: "I am dealing with some health issues that I just didn’t pay attention to when I was watching over Carl," referring to her husband, who died in 2025.
She also said: "It’s not like I haven’t been through hard times with my health. I think because we live in a 24/7 world with social media, everything gets magnified in ways it wasn’t years ago."
Parton had recently cancelled a series of shows and public appearances, telling fans she needed "a few procedures". She had also stepped back from an event at Dollywood after being diagnosed with a kidney stone.
Family confirms the news
Her family confirmed her death on X/Twitter on 25 August with a video of her nephew Brian Seaver. He said: "Hey everyone, my name is Brian Seaver, son of Cassie Parton, and I'm representing the Parton and Owens family today, announcing the passing of my aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, sister, sis, aunt granny to one generation and Gigi to the next."
He continued: "This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago before I fully absorbed it as a future reality, as her head of security for more than two decades-a role my father Larry held before me-I have imagined the heaviness of this moment, but haven't truly felt it until now."
Seaver added: "It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly. Dolly has lived in the light, and is in the arms of Jesus. Surely met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens."
He ended his tribute with: "Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly, and Granny, Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you all. She will always love you."
