Dolly Parton Opens Up About Life After Losing Her Beloved Husband: A Heartfelt Update
Dolly Parton provided a personal update about how she’s handling life since the passing of her long-time spouse, Carl Thomas Dean, at the age of 82, following their 58-year marriage on March 3rd.
In a conversation with Knox News on Monday, the 79-year-old cherished figure expressed that she’s faring better than initially anticipated and shared that they have been together for an impressive 60 years.
He endured much hardship. Though I find solace knowing he found peace, it doesn’t diminish the longing and affection I feel for him. It leaves a void in my heart, one that will be filled with cherished memories, ensuring he remains ever present with me.
Last Friday marked the first time Dolly made a public appearance since the death of the retired road-paver who passed away during the 40th anniversary celebration of her theme park, Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge, TN, which she purchased with Herschend Family Entertainment back in 1986.
Parton said, “I feel like I could use a good laugh. I need some amusement, and I might act foolishly as a result. It’s been quite emotional for me over the past week or so.
In a casual, engaging manner, let me rephrase that for you: Known as a country music icon, he openly shared that his friend Carl often went to Dollywood on his own, indulging in funnel cakes, steering clear of roller coasters, and appreciating the park’s sights and attractions, without his company.

He waited in line, obtained his ticket, and Dolly remembered that he did this to avoid receiving a ticket himself since he was her husband.
I notice we could use additional restrooms here, it might be helpful to address that issue. Also, it seems quite crowded over in that section. Perhaps sharing some suggestions for reorganization or redistribution of guests would be beneficial.
As a diligent observer, I found myself echoing his sentiments when he pointed out aspects that could potentially warrant our attention.
11-time Grammy award recipient hinted that she may follow in the footsteps of Carl by making an anonymous trip to Dollywood. In other words, she might secretly visit and enjoy the attractions without drawing attention, simply admiring all there is to see.
18-year-old Dolly first encountered Dean back in 1964, just a day after relocating to Nashville from Sevierville. This meeting took place at a laundromat, as she was kicking off her music career.
The reclusive couple renewed their wedding vows in 2016 for their 50th wedding anniversary.
In springtime, when the initial daffodils bloom despite lingering snow, my husband always surprises me with a bouquet. He often writes a small poem along with it, and these sweet gestures are more precious than any material gift to me – they feel like a special date on their own, as Dolly Parton shared with People in 2020.
I’ll prepare our favorite dishes for lunch, pack them in a picnic basket, and we’ll head out with our campervan. We can either find a scenic riverbank to enjoy our meal or opt for a cozy little motel like Days Inn if the bed is clean and they have a bathroom available. We simply love these spontaneous adventures together.
Alternatively, I could prepare a candlelit dinner for him. It’s not a big deal, just something that feels right sometimes. Instead of our regular meal on paper plates, I might decide to surprise him with the good china, real crystal, and cloth napkins to make the occasion special.










Back in 2021, I, a die-hard fan, had the privilege of joining in on an extraordinary tribute to Carl on his 79th birthday. The legendary Please Please Please singer decided to reimagine her iconic 1978 Playboy cover, just for him! What a moment to cherish forever!
Three days following his demise, Dolly unveiled a heartfelt tune titled “If Only You Were Here,” which was dedicated to Dean.
The Broadway-destined musical based on Parton’s life, titled “Dolly”, commences previews on July 18th and will be staged from August 8th to 17th at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts situated at Belmont University in Nashville, for a limited run.
Miley Cyrus’ godmother plays a significant role in the show, as not only is she the producer under the guidance of Tony Award-winning director Bartlett Sher, but she also collaborated with two-time Emmy Award winner Maria S. Schlatter on the script and wrote numerous original songs for it. Furthermore, some of your favorite tunes are also included in this production.
Previously, Dolly had been nominated for a Tony Award for creating the music of the Broadway show “9 to 5,” which was staged at New York City’s Marquis Theatre back in 2009.
In 1993, the Palace Theatre hosted the Broadway production of “Candles, Snow & Mistletoe,” where Parton’s song “With Bells On” was one of the featured tunes.
The writer of “Billy The Kid Comes Home for Christmas,” known for attracting approximately 17.8 million monthly listeners on Spotify, boasts a record-breaking sales figure exceeding 100 million units and has shattered no less than ten Guinness World Records.
As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’m honored to share that my musical journey has been recognized by some of the most prestigious institutions in the industry. In 1999, I was humbly inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, a moment that will forever hold a special place in my heart. Fast-forward to 2022, and I was thrilled to join the ranks of music legends when I was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. These accolades are not just milestones in my career, but symbols of the love and appreciation that fans and peers have shown me throughout my journey in music.
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2025-03-20 05:21