Barack Obama Pays Tribute to Dolly Parton Following Her Death at 80

Former President Barack Obama posted a tribute praising Dolly Parton’s life and legacy after The New York Times reported her death at age 80. He highlighted her rise from a one-room cabin, her 11 Grammys and Emmy, business success, Imagination Library literacy work for children, and her role in accelerating Moderna COVID vaccine research, while offering condolences from himself and Michelle to her family and fans. The post is trending due to the breaking news of the beloved country icon’s death, Obama’s large following, and Parton’s broad cultural appeal as a unifying figure amid ongoing national mourning and other high-profile tributes (including from President Trump).