Dolly Parton
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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Reaction started pouring in Tuesday afternoon following the death of country music icon Dolly Parton at 80 years old.

Parton's death was announced Tuesday by her nephew, Brian Seaver, in a video posted on her Facebook page. Her publicist said in a statement Parton died peacefully Tuesday in Nashville, Tennessee. 

She wrote hundreds of songs, including classics like "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors" and "I Will Always Love You," that totaled more than 100 million worldwide sales and more than 1 billion online streams.

When asked by the Associated Press back in 2024 what she hoped her legacy would be 50 to 500 years from now, Parton said she wanted to be remembered as "somebody that tried to do some good in the world."

"Well, I hope that a lot of my songs may last that long, and I hope I'll be remembered as somebody that tried to do some good in the world and left, you know, a few good things behind, like the Imagination Library and some of the music I've done," she said.

In 2024, Parton's Imagination Library expanded to every zip code in Kentucky. It's open to all kids from newborns to 5-year-olds, all of whom can get a free book every month. 

Since the Imagination Library launched in 1995, more than 170 million books have been distributed to kids around the world for free, regardless of their family's income, through the voluntary program. 

In a statement, the Imagination Library of Kentucky said it was "deeply saddened" to hear of Parton's passing.

"We are so proud to realize her dream of the Imagination Library across the entire Commonwealth, and we will forever be grateful that she came to celebrate with us in 2024," the statement continued. "She leaves a legacy unlike any other in American life, and it will live on every time a Kentucky child receives her gift of reading."

The Imagination Library of Louisville said in its own statement the group was "heartbroken" over Parton's death.

"Dolly inspired generations with her music, one-of-a-kind personality, and limitless generosity," the statement continued. "We are privileged to be a part of her mission to get more books into the hands of more children through the Imagination Library of Louisville. We'll share ways you can honor her legacy and love for reading at a later time. For now, please keep Dolly's family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this monumental loss. Rest in peace, Dolly. We will always love you."

The Louisville Free Public Library said it's Fairdale Library created a small display celebrating the life, music and stories of "a true icon."

"Dolly Parton once said, 'If I'm remembered 100 years from now, I hope it will be not for looks but for books,'" the post read.

Gov. Andy Beshear shared his condolences in a post on social media Tuesday afternoon, calling Parton "an American icon who brought people together and spread joy."

"In Kentucky, she shared her love of reading through her Imagination Library, sparking brighter futures for thousands of children across our commonwealth," Beshear said. "There aren't enough words to sum up the impact and legacy Dolly leaves behind, but it is clear that it will continue for generations to come. Britainy and I are praying for Dolly's family and all those hurting from this enormous loss."

In a statement, Dollywood said it was mourning the passing of its "Dreamer-in-Chief."

"Everyone at Dollywood shares the sorrow of countless people around the world touched by Dolly's warmth, wisdom and generous spirit. Dolly's heartfelt wish was that Dollywood always remain a place of joy, hope and togetherness—a space where families and friends could honor her memory, not with silence, but with laughter, music, and shared dreams."

"The greatest privilege of my life has been helping Dolly bring her dreams to life at Dollywood," said Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts president. "Dolly’s heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds. She inspired generations to dream boldly and love deeply. While we grieve her loss, we are honored and committed to carry her light forward. Her legacy will continue to shine in every melody sung, every smile shared and every dream kindled within these gates."

"Dolly’s enduring legacy extends beyond her music and generosity to her remarkable work ethic—an inspiration to people everywhere. In her spirit, Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle — "the show must go on." Together, we honor her by carrying forward her message of love, perseverance, and hope."

In a post on Truth Social, President Donald Trump called Parton "one of the greatest country singers" as he ordered flags to be lowered in her honor.

"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. 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," Trump wrote.

Just after 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Beshear said he ordered flags at all Kentucky state office buildings to be lowered to half-staff for one week starting at 6 p.m. Tuesday "in honor and remembrance of legendary entertainer Dolly Parton."

In her own tribute on social media, Education Secretary Linda McMahon said Parton would be remembered for inspiring kids to read.

"Through her Imagination Library, she placed millions of books into the hands of young children and helped spark a lifelong love of reading," McMahon wrote. "Her music, storytelling, and generous spirit enriched American culture for generations. Her light will continue to inspire."

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame posted a tribute to Parton, "a groundbreaking singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, performer, actor, and media mogul," on Facebook. Parton was inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

"Throughout her illustrious career, she has composed over 3,000 songs, including 'Jolene,' 'I Will Always Love You,' '9 to 5,' and 'Coat of Many Colors.' A passionate philanthropist, Parton has also supported literacy and childhood development through her Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library."

The Country Music Association said in a statement Tuesday that throughout her "illustrious career spanning more than six decades," Parton earned nine CMA Awards, in addition to being honored with the CMA's Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

"At the end of the day, few artists define Country Music better than the one-word, Dolly. Over her decades-long career, I worked with her on a number of programs. She was always the most professional in every setting, often walking off the bus in heels and hair and makeup ready to go, before expected and before the cast and crew. However, along with the music, our biggest loss today is her work as a philanthropist and the genuine difference she has made in people's lives throughout the world. There will only ever be one Dolly," said CMA CEO Sarah Trahern. 

The Grand Ole Opry said in a statement "there will never be another."

"It is with the heaviest of hearts that we say goodbye to a true country music icon, Opry member Dolly Parton," the venue in Nashville said in a post on X. "There is no doubt Dolly's mark on the world, and on us here at the Grand Ole Opry, will be deeply felt for generations to come. She taught us to always lead with kindness, generosity, and compassion. May her legacy live on through her songs, the lives she touched, and the countless artists she inspired. There will never, ever be another one like her."

Country star Reba McEntire recalled Parton's "huge, huge heart."

"Well, I just got the news that my buddy Dolly passed onto the higher and greater side," McEntire said in a post on X. "Dolly, thank you for all the wonderful things you did for us here on earth. Your love, your music and you gave so much with your huge huge heart. There will never ever be another you."

This story will be updated.

Copyright 2026 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press also contributed to this report.