Iconic country music legend Dolly Parton’s beloved husband, Carl Dean, passed away at 82. The couple, who shared nearly six decades of marriage, had one of the most enduring yet private relationships in the entertainment industry.
Carl Dean, husband of Dolly Parton, passed away on March 3rd in Nashville at the age of 82. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony attended by immediate family. He is survived by his siblings, Sandra and Donnie.
Dolly Parton also requested privacy for her family during this difficult time. In her heartfelt message, Dolly included a touching tribute to her late husband:
Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.
A Private Love Story
Dolly Parton and Carl Dean married in 1966, and throughout their marriage, Dean remained primarily out of the public eye. Despite Dolly’s global fame and successful career, the couple kept their relationship from the spotlight, cherishing their privacy.
ALSO READ: Bruno Fernandes’ letter to Benni McCarthy after Kenya move melts hearts
In a rare interview in 2023, Dolly shared a framed photo of herself and Carl reflecting on their life together. She revealed that Dean significantly influenced her music, particularly her Rockstar album. Parton shared how Carl influenced her music and that she chose most songs because of him.
Dolly once made the iconic song Jolene, which she said was inspired by a bank teller who had a massive crush on Carl.
The Secret to Their Lasting Marriage
In 2022, Dolly revealed the key ingredients that kept her and Carl’s marriage strong for nearly six decades.
I like it when people ask, ‘How did it last so long?’ I say, ‘It’s stay going,’she quipped.There’s a lot to be said about that. We’re not in each other’s face all the time. He’s not in the business, so we have different interests, but we also have things we love to do together.
She also emphasized the importance of humour in their relationship. Even when they had problems, Dolly shared that their humour helped them solve them.
ALSO READ: Zimbabwe Hospital Scandal: Blood Goes Missing, Staff Arrested
A Love That Stood the Test of Time
Dolly and Carl’s love story was one for the ages. Despite the challenges of fame and a demanding career, the couple remained devoted to each other. Dolly often spoke about how Carl was her rock and the one person who truly understood her.
It was meant to be,she once said.He was the one I was supposed to have, and vice versa.