“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Dolly Parton is opening up about the loss of her husband of 58 years, Carl Dean, who passed away on March 3 at the age of 82. In an emotional interview with Knox News published on March 17, the country music icon shared that Carl suffered privately in his final days, but her focus now is on cherishing their memories and finding solace in his peace.
“He Suffered in Silence”
“He suffered a great deal,” Dolly revealed. “I’m at peace that he’s at peace, but that don’t keep me from missing him and loving him.” The singer-songwriter, known for timeless hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” spoke candidly about how she’s coping after the loss. “I’m doing better than I thought I would,” she admitted, reflecting on their six decades together. “It’s a hole in my heart, but we’ll fill that up with good stuff and he’ll still always be with me.”
Treasured Memories at Dollywood
In the same interview, Dolly looked back fondly on Carl’s visits to Dollywood, the beloved theme park celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Carl, famously private and independent, would purchase his own admission and explore the park without fanfare. “He bought his own ticket—stood in line and got his ticket,” she recalled. “He didn’t want somebody giving him a ticket ‘cause he was Dolly’s husband. Everybody thinks that’s the funniest thing.”
Carl’s visits often included notes for his wife, offering suggestions on everything from adding more bathrooms to managing crowd flow. “He’d just think, ‘Well, I think I’ll go to Dollywood, check things out,’” she said, laughing at the memories. “He would say, ‘You need more bathrooms.’ Or he would say, ‘You need to tell them this or that. It’s crowded over in that area.’”
A Final Love Note
Just days after Carl’s passing, Dolly took to social media to express her gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans, friends, and family. In a heartfelt post shared on March 6, she thanked everyone who sent messages, cards, and flowers during her time of mourning. “This is a love note to family, friends, and fans,” she wrote. “He is in God’s arms now, and I am okay with that.”
Dolly also included a personal farewell message to Carl, simply stating: “I will always love you.”
Moving Forward with Love
As Dolly continues to navigate life without Carl, she remains committed to honoring his memory and keeping him close in spirit. Her candid reflections and shared moments offer fans a glimpse into the deep love and bond they shared for nearly six decades. Even as she faces the void left by his passing, Dolly’s warmth, humor, and enduring love ensure that Carl’s presence will forever remain a cherished part of her life.
The song Dolly Parton dedicated to her late husband
Lyrics
If you hadn’t been there
Where would I be?
Without your trust
Love and belief
The ups and downs
We’ve always shared
And I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
If you hadn’t been there
Well, who would I be?
You’ve always see the best in me
Your loving arms have cradled me
You held me close, and I believe
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Holding my hand
Showing you care
You made me dream
More than I dared
And I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Oh, you are my rock (mm)
A soft place to land
My wings, my confidence
You understand
Your willingness
Beyond compare
No, I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
Pushing me on
When I was scared
I thank God and you (thank God and you)
Oh, for your loving care
And for giving me love
With more to spare
You made me climb
And top the stairs
I wouldn’t be here
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there
I wouldn’t be here
If you hadn’t been there