America Mourns Dolly Parton: Trump Directs Flags To Fly At Half-Staff For Seven Days

United States President Donald Trump has ordered American flags to be flown at half-staff for one week in honour of country music legend Dolly Parton, who died at the age of 80.

Trump announced the decision on Tuesday following news of Parton’s death. The White House later issued a formal proclamation directing that the US flag be flown at half-staff at the White House, federal buildings, military installations, naval vessels and US diplomatic facilities at home and abroad until sunset on September 1, 2026.

In his message, Trump described Parton’s death as a major loss to millions of people, praising her as one of the greatest country music singers of all time.

He said there had never been anyone quite like the music icon and ordered the national flag tribute in recognition of her contribution to American culture.

Parton’s death was announced on Tuesday by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans, musicians, politicians and public figures around the world.

Born into poverty in rural Tennessee, Parton grew up in a large family and developed her musical talent from an early age. She began singing in church, appeared on local television as a child and later moved to Nashville after completing high school in 1964 to pursue a career in songwriting and music.

Her breakthrough came after she established herself as a songwriter and performer, eventually becoming one of the most successful figures in country music. Her collaboration with Porter Wagoner helped propel her career, while songs such as Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You became enduring classics.

Parton also achieved major success in Hollywood, appearing in films including 9 to 5, Steel Magnolias and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Her musical partnership with Kenny Rogers produced the hugely successful Islands in the Stream.

Beyond music and acting, Parton built a reputation as a philanthropist and humanitarian. Her Imagination Library initiative became particularly notable for providing books to children, while her charitable efforts and support for medical research further cemented her legacy.

Her death has sparked widespread mourning, with tributes highlighting not only her extraordinary career but also her generosity, resilience and influence across generations.