Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff across the state to honor country music legend Dolly Parton, following an order issued by President Donald Trump. The flags will be lowered at 6:00 PM on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, within the State Capitol Complex and on all public buildings and grounds.
"Dolly Parton represents the best of America's values. Her empathy, grit, and spirit define what a star can be in this country," said Gov. Whitmer. "Her legacy is embodied by her incredible commitment to literacy that has helped so many Michigan kids read. My condolences are with her family, fans, and all who had the pleasure of being touched by her music."
Parton, a Tennessee native, had a career spanning seven decades, marked by numerous hits and roles in films like "9 to 5" and "Steel Magnolias." She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999 and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
Beyond her musical achievements, Parton founded the Imagination Library in 1995, a program that has distributed over 300 million free, high-quality books to children aged 0-5 worldwide. Her mission was to inspire a love for reading and ensure children grew up with books. Flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.