Country music icon and humanitarian hero Dolly Parton, 80, passed away on Aug. 25, 2026, “after bravely facing a brief battle with cancer.”
The prolific singer-songwriter and philanthropist’s sudden death was widely recognized across the country, including the White House, the DeSantis administration, and several Florida lawmakers.
Florida Senators React To Parton's Death
“Anne and I are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Dolly Parton. America is heartbroken,” Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) wrote on X. “Dolly Parton was an iconic figure who lived out the American Dream and inspired so many with her music, her story, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her mountain of charitable work. May she rest in peace. She will be missed dearly.”
“Rest in Peace, Dolly - you were truly an American Icon. You will be dearly missed,” Sen. Ashley Moody (R-Fla.) also expressed on X.
Parton's Reps Announce Her Death
“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand,” Parton’s representatives wrote in a statement. “Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly's unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.”
Trump & DeSantis Honor Parton's Legacy
Following Parton’s death, President Donald Trump issued a presidential proclamation calling for the U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Sept. 1, 2026, to honor the late icon.
“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,” President Trump wrote, acknowledging her impact and unique role in American culture.
The DeSantis Administration followed suit, issuing a memorandum in support of President Trump’s order.
