She brought the light, and we are all better because she was here': tributes pour in for Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton has been hailed as a ‘magnificent star’ who ‘filled the world with light’ as the world mourns her death.

The legendary country singer sadly passed away aged 80, her family announced on Tuesday (26 August).

The news was shared on Instagram, by Dolly’s nephew and head of security, Bryan Seaver, who said his beloved aunt had tasked him with breaking the sad news when the time came.

"This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality," he said in the emotional footage.

"As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment, but haven't truly felt it until now.

"It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly."

As well as being a record-breaking singer and songwriter, Dolly was also an accomplished actor and generous philanthropist.

Following the announcement of her passing tributes have poured in from across the music industry, Hollywood, politics and further afield.

Sir Elton John led tributes, sharing on social media that he had been left ‘devastated’ by the news.

He wrote: "Shocked and devastated to hear of Dolly's passing.

"A giant of an artist – unique and irreplaceable, with the kindest heart."

'Thanks Dolly for the beautiful music'

Beatles icon Sir Paul McCartney shared a lengthy statement about the ‘magnificent star’.

He wrote: “She was so bubbly and full of life it is difficult to take in the news that she has passed.

“Her songwriting, her singing and her philanthropy were unrivalled in the world of country music and it is hard to imagine living in a world without Dolly.

“She was a very clever business woman who understood the value of her music and, most importantly, the effect that she had on the people of the world.

"There was no greater honour for me than to have her sing my song Let It Be and, even though I only made a small contribution to it, I am so honoured that she did it. I am so proud to have known her and admire her unique talents.

“Thanks Dolly for the beautiful music you gave me and the whole world. We will always love you, god bless and rest in peace. You were the best.”

TV personality Oprah Winfrey recalled 'having a hoot and a holler while wearing Bob Mackie gowns on her show Dolly' and wrote: “This girl from the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee dreamed a life and then lived a life bigger than she could have ever imagined, giving so generously to others in ways we saw and ways we didn’t.

“No one like her. She brought the light, and we are all better because she was here.

“God bless you, Dolly — you earned your wings.”

Fellow country singer Billy Ray Cyrus also shared a sweet tribute to Dolly, who was Godmother to his daughter Miley.

He wrote: “I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms.

“In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologise for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her. In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!’

“Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way… with my whole heart… and I always will.”

Actress Bette Middler said she was 'devastated' and described Parton’s voice as 'pure gold' with a 'heart to match'.

“I’m sure the nation will mourn her as I do, and for many years to come,” she added, “what a terrible, terrible loss”.

President Donald Trump has ordered flags to be flown at half mast

President Donald Trump took to his Truth Media platform to honour Dolly.

“Very sad to report that Dolly Parton, one of the greatest country singers, and far beyond, EVER, has just passed away,” he wrote.

“This is a true loss for millions of people. There has never been anyone like her, and never will.”

Trump also announced that he had ordered the flags to be flown at half mast in honour of the late singer.

“In her honour, I am lowering the American flag throughout the United States for a one week period beginning tonight at 6:00PM. Rest in Peace, Dolly! The World loves you.”