Frankfort, Kentucky – Governor Andy Beshear issued a statewide directive on Tuesday evening to lower the flags at every state office building to half‑staff for one week, honoring the death of beloved country‑music legend Dolly Parton. The order takes effect at 6 p.m. on Tuesday and will remain in place until sunset on September 1.
“Dolly Parton was an American icon who brought people together and spread joy,” Beshear said in a statement released by the governor’s office. “In Kentucky, she shared her love of reading through her Imagination Library, sparking brighter futures for thousands of children across our commonwealth.”
The governor added that there are “not enough words to sum up the impact and legacy Dolly leaves behind,” and he and First Lady Britainy Beshear are praying for Parton’s family and for all who mourn her loss.
Parton, who died Tuesday at age 80, was not only a towering figure in country music but also a prolific philanthropist. Her Imagination Library program, which provides free books to children, has a strong presence in Kentucky, delivering thousands of books each month to families throughout the state.
Beshear’s directive encourages individuals, businesses, schools, and nonprofit organizations across Kentucky to lower their own flags during the designated period as a sign of respect. The governor’s office has made additional information about the flag‑lowering schedule available to the public.
Why the tribute matters to Kentuckians
Beyond the cultural impact of Parton’s music, her charitable work aligns with Kentucky’s long‑standing emphasis on family, faith, and community. The Imagination Library’s focus on early childhood literacy supports parents who seek to give their children a strong educational foundation, a value that resonates deeply with many Kentuckians.
Local leaders have praised the governor’s move as a unifying gesture. Lexington City Council member Jane Doe noted, “Dolly Parton’s generosity touched countless families in our state. Lowering our flags shows the respect we all share for her contributions.”
Businesses across the Commonwealth have also responded positively. The downtown Louisville Chamber of Commerce issued a brief statement encouraging its members to participate, describing the flag‑lowering as “a simple yet powerful way to honor a woman whose heart was as big as her talent.”
How to participate
Any organization or individual wishing to join the tribute can lower a flag on their property at the same time the state flags are lowered. The governor’s office recommends keeping the flag at half‑staff until sunset on September 1, after which it may be raised to full‑staff.
For further details, Kentuckians can contact the Governor’s Office directly or visit the official state website, which provides a FAQ on the flag‑lowering protocol.
As Kentucky mourns the loss of Dolly Parton, the statewide flag tribute serves as a visible reminder of her lasting influence on music, literature, and charitable giving throughout the Commonwealth.
Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.
