Dolly Parton shared a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, Carl Dean, with the song If You Hadn’t Been There. Married for nearly 60 years, Dean remained private while supporting Parton’s legendary career.
Announcing his passing on March 3, 2025, Parton posted a nostalgic photo, writing, “Like all great love stories, they never end.” Her emotional tribute moved fans to tears.
Dean, who met Parton at a laundromat in 1964, cherished their private life. Despite their differences—her love for the spotlight and his for solitude—their bond endured.
Parton described him as kind, humorous, and steadfast. “He didn’t choose fame—he chose me,” she shared.
Dean’s private funeral will be attended only by family. Parton, finding peace in faith, expressed gratitude for the support, saying, “He is in God’s arms now, and I will always love him.”
