Former United States Presidents, Joe Biden and Barack Obama have paid tribute to legendary country music singer and philanthropist Dolly Parton, celebrating her extraordinary career, philanthropy and impact on millions of people around the world.

Biden described Parton as an “American original” and an inspiration to millions, highlighting her advocacy for women and equality as well as her longstanding commitment to promoting literacy among children.

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In a tribute, Biden said Parton used her Imagination Library initiative to put books into the hands of millions of children because she understood that literacy was fundamental to creating opportunities.

“Simply put, Dolly Parton was an American original. She was an inspiration to millions,” Biden said.

The former president also praised Parton’s character, saying her kindness and respect for others were among the qualities that made her exceptional.

“But perhaps most importantly, Dolly treated everyone with kindness and respect. She lived her values with a flair and vitality for life that was uniquely her own,” he said.

Biden described Parton as a trailblazer whose influence extended beyond music and entertainment, adding that she would be missed by millions around the world.

He said he and his wife, Jill Biden, were keeping Parton’s family, friends and millions of fans in their prayers.”

Obama also joined the tributes, describing Parton’s life and achievements as extraordinary.

“It’s hard to imagine many people having a bigger impact than Dolly Parton,” Obama said.

The former US president highlighted Parton’s humble beginnings, noting that she was born in a one-room cabin before building a hugely successful career and business empire.

Obama also pointed to her achievements in music, noting that she won 11 Grammy Awards and an Emmy, while continuing to make significant contributions to children’s literacy.

He further credited Parton with helping accelerate research that contributed to the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

“Born in a one-room cabin, she earned 11 Grammys and an Emmy, built a business empire, helped millions of kids learn to read, and — as if that wasn’t enough — helped accelerate the research that led to the Moderna COVID vaccine. What a life,” Obama wrote.

He said he and his wife, Michelle Obama, were thinking of Parton’s family and her numerous fans following her death.

Parton was widely celebrated for her contribution to country music and for initiatives such as the Dollywood Foundation’s Imagination Library, which promotes childhood literacy by providing books to young children..

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