Dolly Parton remembered by fellow stars, politicans: "A true loss for millions"
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at age 89.
- Politicians and fellow artists, including President Trump, mourned her passing, praising her as an icon and philanthropist.
- President Trump announced he would lower American flags nationwide for one week in her honor.
The world is mourning the loss of country music icon Dolly Parton, who died at the age of 89. Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum and the entertainment industry, with many remembering her as a beloved artist and a dedicated philanthropist.
There has never been anyone like her, and never will
President Trump lauded Parton as a unique talent, stating, "There has never been anyone like her, and never will." In her honor, he announced that American flags would be lowered across the United States for one week, beginning Tuesday evening. "This is a true loss for millions of people," the president wrote in a social media post. "Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you."
Senators from Parton's home state of Tennessee, Bill Hagerty and Marsha Blackburn, expressed deep sorrow. Hagerty called her a "true Tennessee treasure" whose legacy would be defined by her faith, family, and the "Volunteer Spirit." Blackburn remembered Parton as an "iconic leader" who "loved our great state and nation," adding that her passing leaves an "irreplaceable void."
This is a true loss for millions of people. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.
Beyond her music, Parton was recognized for her extensive charitable work. Senator Bernie Sanders highlighted her advocacy for literacy, education, LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare, and disaster relief, noting that her "music and humanity touched millions." New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani described her as an "irreplaceable champion of the working class," stating, "We are a better country because of her."
Tennessee has lost one of its greatest legends- a woman who never lost sight of her faith, her roots, or the Volunteer Spirit. [Dolly Parton] was a true Tennessee treasure, and her legacy will forever be defined by her love of faith, family, and the place she proudly called home
Fellow country star Reba McEntire shared her grief, thanking Parton for her immense contributions. "Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart," McEntire wrote. "There will never ever be another you. We will remember and cherish every memory and every note."
There are no words to adequately express the sorrow our family and indeed, all Tennesseans, feel in the loss of Dolly Parton. An iconic leader who loved our great state and nation. Her passing leaves a void that no one can ever fill. Dolly, we will always love you.
Originally published by CBS News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.