Trump orders flags to be lowered in honor of Dolly Parton: ‘There has never been anyone like her, and never will’

 Parton claimed in 2021 that she had declined multiple offers for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, including two overtures from Trump.

President Donald Trump has ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff to honor country music icon Dolly Parton.

On Tuesday, Parton’s nephew, Bryan Seaver, announced that the legendary singer behind such hits as “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You” had died at 80. Trump was one of many celebrities to honor Parton’s life on social media.

“Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away,” the president began his post. “This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”

He continued, “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.”

Parton’s legendary career has spanned seven decades, with work in music, film, television, business, and philanthropy that had made her a beloved figure across generations and political divides. For her part, the singer was famously nonpolitical and frequently declined to weigh in on hot button topics as she acknowledged having fans across the political spectrum. 

Parton did not endorse Trump or any of his opponents in his three bids for the presidency, but in 2021, the singer revealed that she had twice turned down his offer to award her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the highest civilian award in the U.S. alongside the Congressional Gold Medal.

“I couldn’t accept it because my husband was ill and then they asked me again about it and I wouldn’t travel because of the COVID,” she explained during a visit to Today. At the time, she shared that she also got another offer for the medal from Joe Biden’s administration.

While Parton cited family illness as the reason she turned down the prior offers, she also indicated that she was wary about the optics of accepting the medal from one president over another.

“I feel like if I take it, I’ll be doing politics,” she explained. “So I’m not sure… But it’s a nice compliment for people to think that I might deserve it.”

A rep for Parton confirmed her death to Entertainment Weekly on Tuesday. 

“A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family,” the statement read. “Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience.”

The statement continued, “With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”