Kathmandu— Dolly Parton, a legendary singer, songwriter, and cultural icon who spent decades writing about poverty, hard work, and the strength of working-class women, died yesterday at age eighty. Her death has prompted an outpouring of praise from celebrities and public figures, with landmarks like the Empire State Building lit in her honor and President Donald Trump ordering flags to be flown at half-staff for a week.

A Unifying Figure

Parton’s broad appeal transcended political divides at a time marked by deep cultural rifts. Both Republican Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer were among those who publicly expressed their admiration for the late singer, demonstrating her ability to connect with people across ideological lines.

The death of Dolly Parton has been met with widespread mourning and celebration of a life dedicated to music and storytelling.

(With inputs from Jacobin)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.