Dolly Parton is saying goodbye to her husband, Carl Dean. He passed away at the age of 82 on March 3rd in Nashville, Tennessee. Dolly shared her feelings on social media, saying, “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.”
They were married for 58 years. Dolly and Carl had a strong bond, even though Carl did not like to be in the spotlight. He was a very private person. People rarely saw him at events or in pictures. But he was always there for Dolly, supporting her through all the years of her fame.
A Beautiful Love Story
Dolly and Carl met when she moved to Nashville. It was 1964, and she was at the Wishy Washy laundromat. Dolly shared that Carl looked at her face and seemed really interested in who she was. She was surprised and happy. They got married two years later, on May 30, 1966. Their love grew over the years, even with challenges. They made it work by respecting each other’s wishes.
In an interview, Dolly said, “There’s a great comfort in knowing that someone loves you exactly for who you are.” This shows how much Carl meant to her. He loved her before she became famous. They had many happy moments together, enjoying each other’s company.
Simple Joys Together
Dolly and Carl liked to do simple things together. They often went on little trips in their RV. Dolly said, “We have a lot of date days.” They would travel, grab some food, or have a picnic by the river. These moments were special to them.
Even when Dolly was busy on the road, she always thought about Carl. She would collect little things for him when she was away. They didn’t buy fancy gifts for each other. Instead, they enjoyed little acts of love. Dolly loved to cook when she was home, and Carl would find things for her kitchen that he thought she might like.
The Inspiration Behind “Jolene”
Carl also inspired many of Dolly’s songs. One of her most famous songs, “Jolene,” was inspired by a flirty bank teller who had a crush on Carl. Dolly explained how this situation became a light-hearted joke between them. She said, “She got this terrible crush on my husband. He just loved going to the bank because she paid him so much attention.” This playful story showed the fun side of their relationship.
Keeping Their Relationship Private
Dolly and Carl chose to keep their relationship private. Dolly once said, “A lot of people say there’s no Carl Dean, that he’s just somebody I made up to keep other people off me.” She joked that she would like to pose with him on a magazine cover so people would know he was real!
Despite his desire for privacy, Carl was always Dolly’s biggest fan. She said, “It’s like, I’m his star.” They had a unique relationship that worked for them. Dolly respected Carl’s choice to stay out of the public eye, and it helped their marriage last for decades.
Remembering Carl Dean
As Dolly reflects on her time with Carl, she remembers the love and support he gave her. They shared a life full of music, laughter, and love. Dolly said, “You know they love you for just who you are, not what you do.” This is a beautiful reminder of the strength of their bond.
Now, as she grieves, Dolly asks for privacy for her family. Carl will be laid to rest in a small gathering with close family members. The couple’s love story is one of a kind, and Dolly will always treasure the memories they made together.
FAQs
What was Carl Dean’s age when he passed away?
Carl Dean passed away at the age of 82.
How long were Dolly Parton and Carl Dean married?
Dolly Parton and Carl Dean were married for 58 years.
Why did Carl Dean avoid the spotlight?
Carl Dean preferred to stay out of the public eye and felt uncomfortable at events.
What inspired Dolly Parton to write “Jolene”?
Dolly wrote “Jolene” about a bank teller who had a crush on her husband, Carl Dean.
What are some of the activities Dolly and Carl enjoyed together?
Dolly and Carl enjoyed traveling in their RV, having picnics, and spending quiet time together.
Dolly Parton will always remember her beloved husband, Carl Dean. Their love story is a testament to lasting love and companionship. Thank you for sharing in their journey.