Dolly Parton's Husband of Nearly 60 Years Dead at 82

If you’re a fan of Dolly Parton like me, I have sad news for you. Carl Dean, her husband since 1966, passed away at age 82 on March 3. The 79-year-old released a song paying tribute to him called “If You Hadn’t Been There” on March 7, which describes how he helped her become the country legend she is today during their longtime marriage. He was camera-shy and let his famous wife take the spotlight. Parton and Dean had been married since they were about as young as most of us Centenary students.  

“I’m doing better than I thought I would. I was with him for 60 years, so I’ll have to relearn some things that we’ve done, but I’ll always keep him close,” said Parton to the Knoxville News Sentinel. “He suffered a great deal near the end. I’m at peace that he’s at peace, but that doesn’t keep me from missing and loving him.” 

Parton, being the rockstar she is, was still up to attend the fortieth anniversary of the opening of her amusement park, Dollywood, on March 14. It was her first public appearance since she was widowed. 

"I just wanted you to know that of course, I will always love him. I will miss him, and of course, I will always love you." said Parton as she thanked her fans and park goers for their support. 

That wasn’t the only support the grieving Parton has received. Although she wasn’t there due to her husband’s death, she was acknowledged at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry 100th-anniversary celebration on March 19. 

“It’s been a great night of celebration, but of course, it’s just not the same without you. Dolly, everybody here at the Opry and around the world wants to send you our thoughts and prayers. And you gotta know, we will always love you.” said Reba McEntire preceding a performance of Parton’s song “I Will Always Love You.” at Opry 100.