Trump Orders U.S. Flags Lowered for Dolly Parton: “There Has Never Been Anyone Like Her”

Dolly Parton’s passing has prompted an extraordinary national tribute, with President Donald Trump ordering American flags across the country to be flown at half-staff for an entire week in her honor.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump remembered Parton as “one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER,” calling her death “a true loss for millions of people.” He said the flags would be lowered beginning at 6 p.m. on August 25 and remain that way for one week.

But Dolly’s legacy has always been about far more than music.

For more than six decades, she became one of America’s most recognizable entertainers—a singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist whose influence reached generations.

From “Jolene” and “9 to 5” to “I Will Always Love You,” her music became part of American culture. But her impact went far beyond the recording studio.

Her Imagination Library has helped put millions of books into children’s hands, while Dollywood became one of the most recognizable attractions in the country.

That’s what makes the reaction to her death so powerful.

Dolly wasn’t simply a country superstar.

She became a symbol of Tennessee, an American cultural icon, and a person whose generosity touched people who had never even met her.

Trump’s decision to lower the flags is an unusually significant honor for a private citizen and reflects just how enormous her impact had become.

As the flags are lowered, millions of fans will be remembering the woman behind the rhinestones, the big hair and the unforgettable voice.

There truly will never be another Dolly Parton.

Rest in peace, Dolly.