Dolly Parton is grieving the loss of her husband, Carl Dean, who she was married to for nearly 60 years, while cherishing the memories they shared. Parton recently shared more details about her beloved husband’s passing in an interview with Knox News, a part of the USA TODAY Network. The country music icon fondly remembered Dean’s secret trips to Dollywood and revealed that he had endured significant suffering before his death.
Reflecting on her life without her husband of six decades, Parton expressed that she is coping better than expected following his passing. She acknowledged the need to adjust to a new way of living without him and emphasized that she will always hold him close in her heart.
Parton and Dean’s love story began in 1964 when a young Parton met Dean outside a laundromat on her first day in Nashville as she embarked on her country music career. The couple married in secret in 1966 and did not have any children together. Despite feeling peace knowing that Dean is now at rest, Parton revealed the profound void she feels in her heart, vowing to fill it with positivity while keeping his memory alive.
Known for his private nature and aversion to public attention, Dean preferred to stay out of the spotlight. However, he occasionally visited Dollywood by himself, purchasing his own ticket and walking around the park while enjoying the sights and flavors. Parton fondly recalled his feedback on the park’s amenities and his subtle suggestions for improvement, showcasing his caring and observant nature.
Although Dean never accompanied Parton on her visits to Dollywood, she appreciates the special exhibit dedicated to him at the Dolly Parton Experience within the park. Parton shared that she might continue Dean’s tradition of solo trips to the park, taking in the sights and relishing the moments just as he did.
In a touching tribute to her late husband, Parton made her first public appearance since Dean’s passing at the opening celebration of Dollywood’s 40th season, surprising fans and passholders with her presence. The iconic singer’s resilience and love for Dean shine through as she navigates this new chapter in her life while honoring his memory in various ways.
Dolly Parton made her first public appearance following her husband Carl Dean’s passing, expressing her love and longing for him. She thanked fans for their support and mentioned that while it was customary for her to lead the season’s opening ceremony at Dollywood, she had considered skipping this year. Ultimately, she decided to attend the event as she felt the need for laughter and fun after weeks of grieving. Parton lightened the mood by making jokes during the season preview with Dollywood President Eugene Naughton, despite struggling with the teleprompter. The article was written by Devarrick Turner, a trending news reporter, and originally appeared in the Knoxville News Sentinel. For more information, contact devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com or follow @dturner1208 on X (formerly Twitter).
