Donald Trump has paid a major tribute to Dolly Parton following the death of the American country music icon, ordering U.S. flags to fly at half-staff for a week.
The U.S. president announced the decision after news broke that Parton had died at the age of 80 in Nashville on August 25.
Trump said her death would be felt by millions.
Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest Country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away. This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.
Then came the national tribute.
Trump said flags would begin flying at half-staff at 6 p.m. on August 25 and remain lowered until sunset on September 1.
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.
The order does not only apply to the White House.
Trump’s presidential proclamation covers public buildings and grounds, military posts, naval stations and federal vessels across the United States and its territories. It also directs U.S. embassies, consular offices and other American facilities abroad to lower their flags for the same period.
The gesture places Parton’s death on a national stage as tributes continue to pour in from the worlds of music, film and politics.
For more than six decades, Parton remained one of America’s most recognisable entertainers.
The singer behind “Jolene,” “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You” built a career that stretched far beyond country music, taking her into Hollywood, business and philanthropy.
Now, as America mourns one of its biggest cultural icons, the country’s flag will fly at half-staff in her honour until September 1.