Dolly Parton, country music icon, dies at 80; US flags lowered for one week

Her nephew, Bryan Seaver, reportedly announced her death on Instagram. In her honor, United States President Donald Trump ordered American flags across the country to be lowered for one week, describing her death as a “true loss for millions of people.” Parton, who rose from humble beginnings in Tennessee, had a career spanning over six decades.

She sold more than 100 million records globally and was known as the “Queen of Country,” with hits including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You.” She wrote over 3,000 songs and won 11 Grammy Awards. Parton was also a successful actor, appearing in films such as 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Steel Magnolias, and Joyful Noise.

Born on January 19, 1946, Parton was the fourth of 12 children. She began performing as a child and moved to Nashville after high school in 1964 to pursue her music career. She released her debut album, Hello, I’m Dolly, in 1967 and later achieved significant success both as a solo artist and in collaborations.

Beyond music and acting, Parton built a business empire, including Dollywood, and was known for her philanthropy, particularly through the Dollywood Foundation’s Imagination Library, which promotes childhood literacy. She also supported medical research and other charitable causes, including donating $1 million towards COVID-19 vaccine research. In 2022, she was awarded the Carnegie Medal of