Governor Andy Beshear has ordered American flags in the commonwealth to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Dolly Parton, who died Tuesday at the age of 80.
Flags should remain lowered until sunset on Tuesday, Sept. 1.
“Dolly Parton was an American icon who brought people together and spread joy,” said Beshear in a statement on social media. “In Kentucky, she shared her love of reading through her Imagination Library, sparking brighter futures for thousands of children across our commonwealth. 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 Beshear, Kentucky’s first lady, was a proponent of the Imagination Library, which delivers free books to kids, and similar literacy initiatives. The staff and board of the Kentucky branch of the Imagination Library issued a statement following Parton’s death.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our founder and inspiration, Dolly Parton,” the statement reads. “We were 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. 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.”
While not required by law, individuals, businesses and organizations are invited to also observe the flag lowering.
