Dolly Parton, the iconic country music star, recently faced the profound loss of her husband, Carl Dean, who passed away at the age of 82 on March 3, 2025. The couple shared nearly six decades of marriage, having wed in 1966.
In the days following his passing, Dolly took to Instagram to express her heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans, friends, and family. She wrote:
“This is a love note to family, friends, and fans. Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you’ve sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband, Carl. I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me. He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you.”
To honor Carl’s memory, Dolly released a touching new song titled “If You Hadn’t Been There.” Sharing the song’s cover art, which features a nostalgic photo of the couple, she reflected:
“Carl and I fell in love when I was 18 and he was 23, and like all great love stories, they never end. They live in memory and in song, and I dedicate this to him.”
Carl Dean, a businessman who owned an asphalt-paving company in Nashville, was known for his preference to stay out of the spotlight, rarely making public appearances with Dolly. Despite his private nature, their enduring love was evident, with Dolly often sharing anecdotes about their life together. Their marriage stood as a testament to enduring love and mutual respect, inspiring many over the years.
Fans worldwide have joined Dolly in mourning Carl’s loss, sharing messages of condolence and support. The couple’s remarkable bond continues to touch the hearts of many, reminding us all of the profound connections that define our lives.
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