Overview

• Dolly Parton’s husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, passed away in March 2025 at the age of 82.
• Parton described her work as a 'great blessing,' providing her with purpose and distraction during her grieving process.
• The couple met when Parton moved to Nashville at 18, marrying in 1966 and maintaining a deeply private relationship throughout their lives.
• Following Dean’s death, Parton released a ballad titled 'If You Hadn't Been There' as a heartfelt tribute to their life together.
• Parton acknowledged the difficulty of adjusting to life without Dean but expressed gratitude that he is now at peace after years of suffering.