The Dallas skyline glowed pink overnight in tribute to Dolly Parton, who died Tuesday at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville after a brief battle with cancer at age 80, according to representatives. Reunion Tower illuminated its landmark sphere in pink as cities across the United States honored the singer’s life, legacy, and philanthropic impact.
Memorials and Official Tributes Across Texas and the Nation
President Donald Trump ordered United States flags lowered to half-staff nationwide for one week beginning at 6 p.m. Tuesday. In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott directed state flags to be lowered in honor of the entertainer, posting on X that the state was sad to lose a legend. According to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, Parton was a dear friend of the state who grew up one of twelve kids in a two-room cabin and never forgot where she came from. Bush and Laura Bush released a statement mourning a great entertainer and even greater person, praising her work promoting literacy and strengthening communities. Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson also described her as a true icon whose music inspired generations.
Deep Ties to the Lone Star State and Pop Culture History
Parton maintained long-standing connections to Texas through decades of concert tours, her starring role in the film The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, and a memorable 2023 Thanksgiving halftime performance at AT&T Stadium where she took the field dressed as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. Reunion Tower’s official social media account noted that Parton taught people to lead with heart, kindness, and sparkle, adding that Dallas will always love her. Beyond entertainment, her Imagination Library literacy program has distributed hundreds of millions of free books to children nationwide, including communities across Texas. Flags across the state and the nation remained at half-staff Wednesday morning on the first full day without her.
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