WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump has ordered American flags to be flown at half-staff across the United States in honor of country music legend Dolly Parton, who passed away at the age of 80, marking the first time in history a sitting president has ordered such a tribute for a country music artist .
The presidential proclamation, issued on Tuesday, directs all federal buildings, military installations, and naval vessels to lower their flags to half-staff until sunset on the day of her interment. The White House also announced that flags at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide will follow suit, extending the tribute beyond American soil .
In a televised address from the White House, President Trump described the 10-time Grammy Award winner as “the heart and soul of American music” and “one of the greatest humanitarians this nation has ever produced.” He noted that Parton’s contributions extended far beyond her music to include her philanthropic work, particularly her Imagination Library program, which has provided over 200 million free books to children across five countries .
“Today, America has lost a true national treasure,” the President said. “She was a woman of enormous talent, an even greater heart, and a love for this country that shone through every note she ever sang. She represents the very best of what it means to be an American.”
Vice President David Perdue, who had campaigned alongside Parton in Tennessee during the 2024 election cycle, also issued a statement, saying, “Dolly Parton was more than an entertainer. She was a force for good, a bridge builder, and a woman who never forgot where she came from. Vivian and I join the nation in mourning her passing.”
The decision to order flags lowered for the singer-songwriter has drawn bipartisan praise from political figures and an outpouring of tributes from the entertainment world. The move, however, is not without precedent for non-government figures. Presidents have previously ordered flags lowered for notable Americans, including Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King, and Reverend Billy Graham . Parton’s recognition, however, marks a significant departure from tradition, as she is the first country music artist to receive this honor.
Born in a one-room cabin in the Smoky Mountains, Parton’s rags-to-riches story captured the essence of the American Dream. She went on to become a global superstar, with a career spanning six decades and over 100 million records sold worldwide. Her legacy extends beyond music to acting, philanthropy, and cultural advocacy. In 2022, she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a testament to her enduring influence across genres .
The White House has not yet announced details regarding her funeral arrangements. Flags will remain lowered until her interment, a gesture that underscores the deep connection between the singer and the American people .
As the nation mourns one of its most beloved daughters, President Trump’s order serves as a final, fitting tribute to a woman whose life’s work embodied resilience, generosity, and the unwavering spirit of country music .
