Dolly Parton Moved by Opry Tribute to Late Husband Carl Dean
Country music icon Dolly Parton expressed profound emotion following a touching tribute to her late husband, Carl Dean.
Tearful Response to Grand Ole Opry Performance
The 79-year-old singer shared her heartfelt appreciation on Instagram Story Friday, conveying her deep affection for Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Lady A, and the Opry choir’s rendition at the “Opry 100 Special” earlier in the week.
The ensemble performed Parton’s acclaimed song, “I Will Always Love You,” as a dedication to both Parton and Dean.
Celebrating a Lifetime of Love
Parton and Dean were married for 59 years before his passing on March 3 at the age of 82.
“I have been continuously moved by the exquisite tribute of ‘I Will Always Love You’ during the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th Anniversary celebration,” Parton wrote in her Instagram story.
“The collective voices of these remarkable artists performing my song in honor of my husband Carl evoked overwhelming emotion. The tears shed have helped to alleviate some of the sorrow, and I extend my gratitude to everyone who contributed to that moment.”
The legendary entertainer concluded, “I too, will always love you.”
Mourning the Loss of Her Husband
Parton publicly announced the death of her longtime companion on Instagram earlier this month.
“Carl and I shared countless cherished years together. Words cannot fully capture the profound love we experienced for over six decades. Thank you for your continued prayers and condolences,” her message conveyed.
In a subsequent post, the renowned artist thanked her fans on Instagram for their outpouring of support.
Gratitude for Fan Support
“This message of affection is for family, friends, and fans alike. I am grateful for all the messages, cards, and floral tributes sent to commemorate the passing of my beloved husband, Carl,” she penned. “While I cannot personally respond to each of you, please know that your gestures have meant the world to me. He is now in eternal peace, which brings me solace. I will always cherish you.”
A Love Story Begun in Nashville
Parton and Dean’s romance began at a Wishy Washy Laundromat in Nashville when she was just 18. They married on May 30, 1966.
Musical Tribute: “If You Hadn’t Been There”
The “Steel Magnolias” star also honored her late spouse by releasing a poignant song titled “If You Hadn’t Been There.”
Parton selected a nostalgic photograph of herself and Dean for the album artwork, which she unveiled via Instagram.
The image captures a young Parton embracing Dean from behind, her arms around his neck.
“Carl and I fell deeply in love at 18 and 23, respectively, and like all enduring romances, their essence persists,” Parton shared in the post. “They live on in memory and song, and this is dedicated to him.”
Dean’s Enduring Affection
“My immediate thought was ‘I’m going to marry that woman.’ My subsequent thought was, ‘She is incredibly attractive.’ And that marked the beginning of my life,” Dean recounted to Entertainment Tonight in 2016. “I wouldn’t exchange the past half-century for anything in the world.”
First Public Appearance After Loss
Following Dean’s death, Parton made her initial public appearance at Dollywood’s Celebrity Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, on March 14.
Parton visited the theme park to inaugurate its 40th operating season and took a moment to acknowledge Dean’s passing.
“Of course, my love for him is eternal, and I will deeply miss him, but I want you to know that my love extends to you all as well,” she expressed, according to local news reports.
Reflecting on Grief and Remembrance
Parton later engaged in an interview with Knox News, discussing her process of coping with the loss.
“I am faring better than anticipated,” the renowned star admitted. “Having spent 60 years together, I am now navigating adjustments to routines we shared. However, he will forever remain in my heart.”
Parton added she finds “peace in his peace,” yet acknowledged the ongoing “absence” and her enduring love.
“[Dean] endured considerable suffering,” Parton revealed, adding that while there is “a void in my heart, it will be filled with cherished memories, and his presence will always be with me.”