Dolly Parton is an amazing singer, a great songwriter, and a shrewd businesswoman. Plus a caring and active humanitarian. But she has a deeply private side as well. Not a lot is known about her marriage to Carl Dean, whom she wed in 1966. Sadly, Dean passed away on March 3 at age 82. We can only guess at the magnitude of this awful loss for Parton. We don't know for certain his cause of death, but he may have had Alzheimer's disease, per Taste Of Country.
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Per the outlet via Closer Weekly, Parton devotedly stayed right near Dean until the last moment. An anonymous source reportedly said, "They were in love until the very end, They gave each other exactly what the other needed." Before Dean passed, Parton is said to have promised him something that will touch you deeply.
Dolly Parton Was Devoted To Her Husband, Carl Dean, Especially In His Final Days
As the source noted, Parton, 79, comforted Dean by holding his hand as he neared the end of his life. She reminisced about their years as a couple while keeping him company. The source shared, "His eyes would still light up when Dolly entered the room. It was very difficult for her, but she didn't want him to be afraid or feel alone."
As her beloved spouse slipped away, Parton also leaned into her faith for strength and sustenance.
She made him a tender. loving vow. "She promised Carl she'd see him again. Dolly wanted him to be at peace in his final moments."
What a beautiful final sentiment to convey to a loved one! I hope that Parton and Dean did both find peace when she said that.
Parton Graciously Posted A Message To Her Fans About Her Husband's Passing
Parton compassionately reached out to her fans via social media when Carl Dean passed away. In a heartfelt and caring message, she wrote on Instagram, "This is a love note to family, friends, and fans. Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you've sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Carl. I can't reach our personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me. He is in God's arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you."
The last sentence echoes the title of Parton's famously romantic song. Whitney Houston covered it for the soundtrack of her film with Kevin Costner, The Bodyguard.
She Wrote A Song To Honor His Memory And Their Relationship
Parton, a prolific songwriter, penned a song titled, "If You Hadn't Been There" to honor Carl Dean. She posted on Instagram, "I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old. We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together. Like all great love stories, they never end. They live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him."
