Heartache echoes through the Parton family as Dolly’s sister breaks her silence, sharing a message heavy with love and loss after Carl Dean’s passing.

Dolly Parton’s Husband Of Nearly 60 Years Passes Away

Carl Dean, Dolly Parton’s husband, passed away at the age of 82 in Nashville on Monday evening, March 3.

Dolly’s team confirmed the news through a post shared on her social media. In the statement, she briefly reflected on their long relationship together.

“Carl and I spent many wonderful years together,” Parton wrote. “Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.”

The statement also shared that he will be laid to rest in a private ceremony, with only immediate family in attendance.

 

Dolly first met Carl Dean when she was 18 and he was 21. The two randomly crossed paths at a laundromat in Nashville, and from there, the rest is history. They married just two years later.

They famously kept their relationship private, despite the “9 to 5” singer’s worldwide fame. In fact, her husband had only been photographed a handful of times throughout their decades together. Early on, he made it clear he had no interest in the spotlight.

“He knows if he ever started doing interviews and if people started photographing him and all that, then he wouldn’t be able to go to the auto parts store or the ballgames and the places he wants to go without bein’ bothered,” Dolly once said.

The two had completely different personalities, but Dolly has mentioned before that their acceptance of what each other wanted in life was the key to their long and happy marriage.

“He’s a good guy – He’s quiet, and I’m loud… One of the things that’s made it last so long through the years – we love each other, we respect each other, but we have a lot of fun.”

Dolly’s Sister, Stella, Shares Statement Following Carl Dean’s Passing

Shortly after news broke of Carl Dean’s passing, Dolly’s sister Stella spoke out. In a post on X, she shared her appreciation to everyone for their prayers and support for Dolly, their family, and Carl Dean’s loved ones.

Our hearts are with Dolly and Carl Dean’s family at this time.