Dolly Parton and her husband Carl Dean had stayed together for 59 years
The 79-year-old wife Parton released this statement: "Carl and I enjoyed many wonderful years together. Words cannot express the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy."
Their family has also requested "privacy during this difficult time."
Dolly Parton and Carl Dean didn't have a conventional ... (Source: www.cnn.com)
Dean leaves behind his siblings Sandra and Donnie, and will be buried in a private ceremony with close family.
In a conversation on the Dumb Blonde audio show last year, the then 78-year-old singer remembered: "He said, 'Look, now I want you to do everything you want to do, and I wish you the best, but don't ever ask me to go to another one of these damn things because I ain't going,' and he never did."
Parton expected her new husband's choice at that time, as he never wanted attention focused on him.
"He enjoys music, but he's not at all interested in being in it," she explained. "And he told me that right from the start."
Their relationship endured over time and the pair even renewed their vows in 2016 at their Nashville residence.
It appears Parton and Dean were total opposites beyond just their views on fame.
"He's quiet and I'm loud, and we're funny... we have a lot of fun," she continued. "Anytime too much tension happens, either one of us can find a joke about it to really break the tension, where we don't let it go too far," she described. "We never fought back and forth."
Dolly Parton's Husband of 60 Years, Carl Dean, Has Passed ... (Source: axs.tv)
The couple first encountered each other in 1964 outside the Wishy Washy Laundromat in Nashville, Tennessee. Parton was 18 and Dean was 21. Attraction began immediately as Dean drove by in his pickup truck when he noticed Parton outside and 'hollered' at her, she told The New York Times in 1976.
Throughout Parton's remarkable climb to fame, her husband backed her privately while running a road-paving company. They maintained their connection across decades, as Parton shared in 2022 that she still dresses up for her partner at home.
"Every day, I apply some makeup and style my hair because I think, 'Well, everyone out there sees me fully dressed up, and I'm not going to simply go home and look messy for him,'" she explained to E! News.
Dolly Parton's rarely-seen but frequently discussed husband of six decades, Carl Dean, has died, the country music icon revealed Monday through social media. He was 82 years old.
"Carl and I enjoyed many fantastic years together," Parton stated in her Instagram announcement. "No words can fully express the love we shared across 60 years. I appreciate your prayers and sympathy."
An additional statement noted, "He will be buried in a private service with only immediate family present. His siblings Sandra and Donnie survive him... The family requests privacy during this hard time."
Dean has fascinated fans since Parton's career began, as he never joined the superstar at public events and seldom appeared in photos. Parton consistently explained that their mutual agreement about his absence from publicity helped sustain their relationship.
Carl Dean: Dolly Parton's Husband of Six Decades Was 82 (Source: variety.com)
During an E! interview last spring, Parton explained, "Having someone in your corner who loves you for who you are is essential. There's great comfort knowing someone loves you exactly as you are—because he fell in love with me before I became famous."
The couple married on May 30, 1966, in Ringhold, Georgia, with Parton's mother present, two years after they started dating when she was 18. Even early in their marriage, before she became a country-pop and entertainment sensation, Dean rarely appeared with her.
Their first meeting occurred at a laundromat shortly after her arrival in Nashville. As the story goes, the 6'2" Dean drove by and called to the 5-foot Parton, "You're gonna get sunburnt out here, little lady." Parton later said, "I was happy and surprised that while talking to me, he looked at my face (something uncommon for me). He seemed truly interested in discovering who I was and what I valued."
"Many people claim Carl Dean doesn't exist, that I invented him to keep others away," she acknowledged in a 1984 Associated Press interview, adding she wished she could convince him to participate in a photo shoot. Though Dean avoided photographs, he does appear in the background of her 1969 album cover "My Blue Ridge Mountain Boy."
What Dolly Parton Said About Carl Dean Marriage Before His Death (Source: www.eonline.com)
In 2015, she told Parade, "I married a truly good man, someone completely different from me... He enjoys hearing about my activities. I enjoy hearing about his activities. We appreciate each other's company."
We get along well," Parton shared. In 2016, celebrating their golden anniversary, Parton's website dedicated a section to the pair (featuring a rare snapshot of them together, with Dean kissing her cheek in what seems to be from the '70s or '80s), noting they had "celebrated 50 years of marital happiness despite confronting many typical marriage challenges and numerous distinctive difficulties of their own."
The webpage continued, "Dolly and Carl have lived in marital bliss for five decades. They've cherished and backed each other while honoring each other's autonomy... Though one might assume Dolly would be the more entertaining partner, she frequently mentions that Carl's distinctive humor keeps her amused. Considering Dolly's grand perspective on everything, it's perfectly logical that her one true love would be equally exceptional in every aspect."
In a 2012 conversation with Tennessee's TV station WRCB, Parton elaborated on the circumstances of her wedding to Dean. "I encountered him my first day in Nashville, and we courted for two years," she explained about her spouse, who was employed at his father's asphalt company when they met. "At that time, I was collaborating with Fred Foster, owner of Monument Records and Combine Music. He planned to financially support my path to stardom."
When they became engaged, she revealed Foster "requested I not marry. He said it would create more difficulties if I were married during all this promotion. My mother-in-law had already distributed invitations. It crushed her when I said we needed to cancel the wedding."
Dolly Parton Musical 'Hello, I'm Dolly' Coming to Broadway (Source: www.rollingstone.com)
"But we left the following weekend, slipping away because we wanted to avoid nearby locations, like Bryson City, North Carolina. So we chose Ringgold because we knew you could obtain your license and marry on the same day. They informed us, 'You must marry in the courthouse.' I responded, 'I will not marry in the courthouse. I will marry in the church'."
"I stated, 'I must have momma present'," she continued. "So I had purchased a small dress, momma had bought me a Bible with flowers on it. We took momma and returned, marrying on a Monday, in a church. We located a pastor, (and although) neither of us were Baptist, my dad's relatives were, so I had attended many Baptist churches. So we married in the Baptist church there... We transported momma back to the bus station in Chattanooga so she could return to Knoxville, ensuring she wouldn't join our so-called honeymoon, which lasted just a few hours, (since) we both needed to return to work the next morning."
Parton told the station that she and her husband regularly revisited Ringgold, where they exchanged vows, on their May 30 anniversary.
"We attempt to visit there annually if possible," Dolly explains. "We go at least once every three years. We journey there and bring a picnic... Chattanooga is wonderful, we adore Lookout Mountain, we enjoy doing all those activities. When we visit Ringgold, we typically make it a complete weekend excursion."
15 Best Dolly Parton Movies - Movies With Dolly Parton (Source: www.thepioneerwoman.com)
Fans were intrigued by how Parton and her spouse could take driving trips in rural areas without being recognized. But she maintained, "People never realize we're there. We travel in a small RV camper. I stop and don't wear my typical rhinestones. I apply slight makeup for my husband, I usually have my natural hair, just secured with a small scrunchy or similar item. But you wouldn't think twice; you simply don't notice me. However, if you hear my voice and see me up close, you recognize it's me."
She confirmed this remained true in an E! interview last year, telling the network, "We simply appreciate each other. One thing we like to do—not necessarily a date night; we have numerous date days—we own our small RV and enjoy traveling around. Going somewhere to get food, or I'll prepare a picnic and we go to the river."
A stage musical Parton has composed about her life journey is scheduled for Broadway in 2026, with an initial test run set to debut in Nashville this August. Parton hasn't discussed in detail which aspects of her life the musical will include, so fans have been curious about whether the relationship with Dean will be depicted.
Parton's website stated that she composed the song "From Here to the Moon and Back" with Dean in mind, highlighting these lyrics: "From here to the moon and back / Who else in this world will love you like that? / Love everlasting, I promise you that / From here to the moon and back."
This Hollywood Icon Proved That True Love Exists by Caring for Her Husband of 46
Years After His Stroke – A Love Story That Inspires
Her life appeared to be a glamorous Hollywood fairy tale — performing alongside some of the biggest stars in films that became classics. Yet, her greatest happiness came from a love story that spanned nearly fifty years. When her husband's health declined in later years, she stayed by his side, dedicating herself to his care.
She gained fame in the 1950s, earning a place during Hollywood's golden era with roles in movies like "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" and "Funny Face." Her career lasted over sixty years, making her a familiar face on stage, television, and in movies.
Known for her charm and energy, she could sing, dance, and act — maintaining a steady presence in the industry for many years. Her marriage of 46 years was sometimes difficult, especially in later years, but her commitment to her husband through life's toughest moments showed that love can survive anything.
Her early television debut was on the popular "Burns and Allen" show when she was only 16. She described it as a small break, but it was enough to give her a union card and begin her acting journey.
Her initial TV work led to larger roles, and soon she auditioned for the 1954 film "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers." The producers needed dancers for the musical, and her ballet skills caught their attention.
When asked if she had a more "down-to-earth" performance, she impressed everyone with a Lithuanian polka — drawing from her Eastern European heritage. Her unique charm and talent earned her the part of Ruth Jepson.
The musical was a big success, and the experience left a lasting impression. She remembered once slipping during rehearsals and hitting her head on the stage, knocking herself out. She recalled, "I did a big slide back and fell face-forward onto the planks, went out cold."
The actress, also a choreographer, lightened the moment by joking she was looking for a dropped coin. Despite a bump on her forehead, she laughed and kept rehearsing. The movie's success made her a well-known Hollywood figure. She quickly took on other notable roles, including in "Funny Face" with Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire and in "Witness for the Prosecution."
Her versatility kept her busy for many decades, working in film, TV, and theater. She admitted she never became a top star but enjoyed a consistent, fulfilling career. "I'm a triple threat," she said proudly, referencing her multiple talents.
She also spent five years on the Home Shopping Network, where her lively personality resonated with viewers. Reflecting on her career, she said, "I've always been able to make a living at it."
While her job was filled with exciting opportunities, her true happiness was found in her marriage. She had a love story that came to define her later life.
She married Webb Lowe, a handsome real estate businessman from Texas. She described him as "handsome in every way. His inside was even better than his looks. He was the best man God could have sent." They built a life full of love, laughter, and adventures. She loved traveling with him and enjoying simple pleasures. Their marriage lasted 46 years.
In 2020, she celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary with a heartfelt message online. She wrote, "Today and every day is special with this wonderful man. As we toast each other, we wish everyone love, whether you're with someone or single... love each other and love yourselves." Their marriage endured through many ups and downs, but her love for Lowe was always strong.
When Lowe had a stroke, their joyful life changed drastically. She devoted herself completely to his care. She talked openly about how difficult it was, sometimes losing patience. But Lowe’s gentle nature and appreciation helped her cope. His steady kindness was a source of strength during tough times.
Later, Lowe's health worsened as he developed dementia and his condition declined. Watching him fade was heartbreaking. Yet, she found ways to stay resilient and advised others dealing with similar struggles. "You have to pray and draw on your love to get through. People with dementia don't realize what they do to you. It can tear you apart if you let it," she shared.
Despite the heavy burden, she continued caring for him because of the deep love they shared. It was not easy, but she was determined to see it through. In July 2020, Lowe died just before turning 89. Though she felt sorrow, she focused on gratitude for their years together. "When he died, I could only look back with a smile," she said. "I had 46 wonderful years. He was kind and loving." Watching his slow decline was one of the hardest experiences of her life.
She remembered, "Every few months, I saw him slip away more." Despite her sadness, she celebrated their life on social media, wishing a "Heavenly Anniversary" to her beloved. Supporters expressed admiration and love for her enduring devotion. One fan called it a "beautiful love story." Others praised it as a "wonderful romantic journey" or said, "It’s great you can miss him so much."
Even after losing him, she stayed positive. She found comfort in remembering their life together. "I thank God every day," she said. "I’m sad he’s gone, but I’m grateful for all those years with him."
After Lowe’s death, she focused on her work with The Thalians, a nonprofit supporting mental health causes in Hollywood. Her involvement began years earlier when the organization worked on helping children with psychiatric issues. Later, the focus shifted to aiding returning veterans’ mental health, which she warmly supported.
She shared, "My work with The Thalians is what I’m most proud of. Now, we concentrate on helping returning soldiers." Giving back gave her a new sense of purpose, just like her long career in entertainment. At 89, she remains active and involved, loved by her fans for many decades.
One admirer wrote, "A forever fan since the early 60s!" People continue to praise her timeless beauty and spirit, calling her a "gorgeous lady" and saying, "You are so beautiful to me." Despite her many achievements, she feels she is not finished yet. "I don’t think I’ve had my big break," she joked a few years ago. "I believe I still have more to accomplish."
On Their 50th Anniversary, Husband Comes Home & Sees That His Wife Has Put All His Belongings Out on the Street
A woman feels angry and hurt when her husband forgets their 50th wedding anniversary and throws his belongings onto the street — until he returns home with an unusual excuse.
Betty Carmichael believed her husband had once again forgotten their anniversary, and she was determined not to let it go unnoticed this time. She had been married to Donald for fifty years and believed she deserved more respect.
She had supported him through many hardships and had three children with him. She thought she had experienced the best years of her life with him. Yet, she received nothing in return—not even a bunch of wilted daisies or red roses.
Betty checked the clock and frowned. It was 9:30 pm. Donald hadn't even come home for the special dinner she had prepared. This was the final straw.
Trust is the foundation of every relationship, and doubt gradually destroys the love that holds it together.
Two hours later, Betty heard her husband's car arrive and saw a small grim smile form. She knew Donald wasn't going to enjoy his evening at all.
Suddenly, she heard him shout: "BETTY! What's going on here?"
She stepped outside onto the porch, hands on her hips. "What do you want?" she asked.
Donald was standing in the yard, looking furious. He pointed at an old, worn-out recliner on the lawn along with several boxes of books and knick-knacks.
"Why are my belongings outside?" he asked. "Are you out of your mind?"
"Out of my mind?" Betty shouted, and the lights in the house next door turned on. "You're the one who's crazy! Do you have dementia or forgetfulness? I'm throwing you out. I'm divorcing you!"
"Divorcing me?" Donald gasped in disbelief. "I'm seventy-eight and you're seventy-five, and you want a DIVORCE?"
"Yes!" Betty yelled. "Just because I'm seventy-five doesn't mean I'm no longer a woman. You can't take me for granted! I won't let you!"
Betty was sure Donald no longer loved her.
"Betty," Donald said calmly. "What is all this about? Be reasonable."
"You forgot our anniversary AGAIN!" Betty snapped. "We've been together fifty years, and I have to remind you of my birthday. Sure, you weren’t there, but you were at least there for the wedding!"
"Bets," Donald tried to explain. "That was the happiest day of my life..."
"Then why don’t you remember it?" Betty asked angrily. "Why don’t you bring me flowers or take me dancing? You don’t love me anymore. You haven’t loved me for years."
Donald shook his head. "I love you, Betty," he said. "You are the love of my life..."
Betty then carried Donald’s favorite chair outside to the street.
"Then why didn't you come home for dinner?" she asked. "I made a special meal, lit candles, and set out flowers, and you never showed up! Where were you? Out with another woman?"
Donald grinned and stepped aside. Standing there was a slim young woman in her twenties with Betty’s blue eyes and Donald’s broad smile.
"Hannah!" Betty cried and ran down the steps. She almost fell, but Donald caught her. She hugged the girl, tears streaming down her face.
"Oh, Hannah," she sobbed. "It’s been too long! I missed you so much!"
"Hannah," she said, "Sorry we're late. My flight was delayed. Poor Grandpa Donald waited for hours!"
Betty turned back to her husband. "You knew she was coming and didn't tell me?" she asked.
"I didn’t KNOW," Donald said proudly. "I arranged this as a surprise! It was supposed to be your anniversary gift, but the flight was late... You keep saying how much you miss your only grandchild, so I bought her a plane ticket!"
Betty embraced her husband. "Oh, Don! I’m sorry. I started thinking crazy things..."
Donald then knelt and pulled out a small jewelry box. "Betty, I haven’t looked at another woman in fifty years, and I’m not going to now."
The next day, Betty wore a pretty cream dress and a small veil to celebrate their fiftieth wedding anniversary. As Donald kissed her, she promised never to doubt him again.
What can we learn from this story?
Trust is the key to any relationship, and doubt destroys the love that keeps it strong. Betty thought Donald didn’t love her anymore, but he had planned a sweet surprise.
Marriage is about every day, not just special occasions. Betty forgot that Donald supported her through difficult times and was there for her, no matter what.
