Billy Ray Cyrus, Donald Trump & Mick Jagger lead emotional tributes to country icon Dolly Parton after her death aged 80
CELEBRITIES across the world have paid tribute to country music superstar Dolly Parton after the Queen of Country died aged 80.
The icon’s passing has sent the music world into mourning and united many in an outpouring of grief as they share emotional tributes.
Devastating news of Dolly’s death was announced on social media, with her nephew Bryan Seaver saying she was “in the arms of Jesus”.
She passed away peacefully after a “brief battle with cancer” in Nashville, reps from her team told People.The all-time great spent over 65 years in the music industry and wrote some of country’s biggest ever hits including 9 to 5, Jolene and Islands in the Stream.
Billy Ray Cyrus – whose daughter Miley is Dolly’s goddaughter – shared an emotional message about the loss of his close friend.
It comes as…
- Icon’s cause of death revealed
- Star looked upbeat in final photos taken just weeks before her death
- Family statement in full as nephew confirms country music icon’s death
- Singer revealed ‘hard times with health’ just days before passing
- Heartbreaking last post looked forward to opening of her museum
He wrote: “I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TVs, right in our living rooms.
“Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart.
“I will always love her in the same way… with my whole heart… and I always will.”
Donald Trump, who previously offered her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, said American flags would be lowered for a week in her honor.
He wrote on Truth Social: “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.”
Sir Elton John said he was “devastated” to hear about Dolly Parton’s death.
In a tribute on his Instagram stories, the British singer-songwriter wrote: “Shocked and devastated to hear of Dolly’s passing. A giant of an artist – unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart.”
Mick Jagger wrote: “What a wonderful songwriter and singer Dolly was. She brought so many people together, we will all miss her so much.”
Jane Fonda, Dolly’s 9 to 5 co-star told fans “I am devastated”.
She continued: “Dolly will always be with us because she was so present, so powerful, so generous and playful that she is woven into all our lives and hearts forever.
“She was many things…lyricist, songstress, player of many instruments, writer, prankster, visionary, loyal friend, who’d never go to bed before she and her friends had laughed so hard they’d have to cross their legs.”
“I never knew anyone like her. RIP, beautiful woman. We love you.”
Elvis Presley’s ex-wife Priscilla shared a poignant memory about her rocker husband singing Dolly’s song to her when their marriage ended.
“Dolly brought so much joy, kindness and beautiful music into this world,” she wrote.
“I will always remember our conversations, and especially the connection we shared through a song that holds such a personal place in my heart — I Will Always Love You.
“After Elvis and I left the courthouse following our divorce, he sang that song to me as we walked down the steps together. Years later, I shared that memory with Dolly.
