Carl Dean, the beloved businessman and longtime husband of country music icon Dolly Parton, has passed away at the age of 82. Reports confirm that Dean died in his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, on March 3. Parton, 79, shared an emotional statement, expressing that “words can’t do justice to the love” they shared over their remarkable 60-year marriage.
The couple, who wed in May 1966, renewed their wedding vows nine years ago, marking a deep commitment to one another. Following the news of his passing, Parton offered this heartfelt message: “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.”
The family has requested privacy during this challenging time, and reports indicate that Dean will be laid to rest in a private ceremony attended by his immediate family.
Although the couple never had children, their legendary bond stood as a testament to their unwavering devotion, even in the face of the intense pressures and public scrutiny that comes with Dolly’s immense fame. Despite the challenges that come with being married to one of the most recognized faces in music, Dean and Parton remained steadfast in their love for each other for more than six decades.
During a 2024 appearance on the Dumb Blonde podcast, Parton revealed that early in their relationship, Dean made it clear he was fully supportive of her musical career but had no interest in being part of the public life that came with it. “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 recalled with a smile. “He loves music, but he’s not the least bit interested in being in it. And he told me that right up front.”
Their love story began in 1964 outside the Wishy Washy Laundromat in Nashville, where Parton, 18 at the time, met 21-year-old Dean. According to Parton’s account to The New York Times in 1976, sparks flew when Dean drove by in his pickup truck, saw her, and hollered at her—starting a love story that would endure for decades.
Throughout Parton’s rise to superstardom, Dean remained a supportive figure behind the scenes, running a road-paving business while quietly cherishing their life together. Despite the demands of her career, Dean’s loyalty and love for Parton remained constant, a true reflection of the strength of their relationship.
Rest in peace, Carl Dean. You will be deeply missed.
