Dolly Parton announces death of husband Carl Thomas Dean
After years of him staying out of the spotlight, Dolly Parton has announced the death of her reclusive husband Carl Thomas Dean, who has passed away at the age of 82.
Dolly Parton has announced the death of her reclusive husband Carl Thomas Dean, who has passed away at the age of 82.
The country singer, 79, confirmed his passing in a statement on Instagram on Monday (03.03.25), saying he had died in Nashville on 3 March.
She said: “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.”
Carl, renowned for staying out of the spotlight, is survived by his siblings, Sandra and Donnie, and will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family.
He and Dolly were married since 1966.
Despite her global fame, Carl largely avoided the spotlight.
In 2024, she spoke about his preference for privacy on Bunnie Xo’s ‘Dumb Blonde’ podcast, explaining: “He loves music, but he's not the least bit interested in being in it.”
Dolly also recalled a moment early in their marriage when she convinced him to attend an awards show in 1967, where she won BMI Song of the Year.
Despite the win, Carl told her: “I wish you the best, but don’t ever ask me to go to another one of these damn things because I ain't going.”
