While Dolly Parton never ran from the spotlight when it came to her career in country music and Hollywood, her husband, Carl Dean, opted for a private life. Knowing the stardom that surrounded his wife, Dean often stayed silent about his marriage to the country star and even skipped numerous events and awards ceremonies. Understanding her husband’s need for privacy, Dolly was married to Dean for over six decades. Sadly, on March 3rd, Dean passed away at 82 years old. With the news taking over headlines, fans, friends, and family offered their love and support.
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Sharing the heartbreaking news on her social media, Dolly wrote, “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 with immediate family attending. He was survived by his siblings Sandra and Donnie.”
Adding her own statement to the announcement, Dolly wrote, “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.”
Although the family asked for privacy as they dealt with Dean’s passing, Dolly’s sister, Stella Parton, thanked fans for their ongoing support. “On behalf of my sister Dolly, our family, and Carl’s family we appreciate your prayers at this time.”
On behalf of my sister Dolly, our family and Carl’s family we appreciate your prayers at this time.
— Stella Parton (@StellaParton) March 4, 2025
[RELATED: 8 Photos of Dolly Parton and Carl Dean’s Love Spanning Nearly 60 Years]
Sabrina Carpenter, Lainey Wilson, and Tanya Tucker Share Their Love For Dolly Parton
Having formed a friendship with Dolly over the years, country singer Tanya Tucker posted a picture of Dolly and her husband. Unlike most, Tucker even met him. “I remember meeting Carl when I stopped in at their house unexpected in Brentwood when I was 15 or 16. She made me chocolate chip cookies and we all sat around and talked and it was one of my most precious memories!!”
Wanting nothing more than to hug her friend, Tucker added, “I know she’s hurting and that makes me hurt too!!! Just wish I could wrap my arms around her! Rest Easy Carl!!!”
Fellow country star Lainey Wilson added, “Awwww – so sorry Dolly sending all the love and prayers.”
Recently, Dolly collaborated with Sabrina Carpenter on the song “Please, Please, Please.” While the song gained high praise and even hinted at Carpenter’s past relationships, the singer also shared a touching post that showed them on set. She followed the picture with one of Dolly and Dean in their early years.
While standing by her side throughout the years and watching her stardom take over country music, Dolly not only lost her husband but also one of her biggest supporters.
(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)
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