Carl Dean, the husband of country music star Dolly Parton, has died. Dean, 82, passed away in Nashville, Tennessee yesterday (March 3). Dolly, 79, said in an emotional statement that words couldn’t describe their deep love.
The couple married in May 1966 and renewed their vows 9 years ago. After Dean’s death was made public, Dolly said, “Carl and I had many great years. Words can’t express our 60 – year love. Thanks for your prayers.” Their family asked for privacy. Dean will be buried in a private ceremony with his close family.
Though they had no kids, their love was well – known. Despite Dolly’s busy music career and fame, they stayed together for over 60 years.
Last year on the Dumb Blonde podcast, Dolly said Dean told her early on that he supported her music career but didn’t want to be in the spotlight. He said, “Do what you want, but don’t make me go to those events. I’m not going,” and he never did.
Their love story began in 1964. They met outside a laundromat in Nashville. Dolly was 18 and Dean was 21. Dean saw Dolly outside as he drove by in his truck and called out to her, as Dolly told The New York Times in 1976.