Dolly Parton Opens Up About Her Emotional Journey Following the Passing of Husband, Carl Dean
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The iconic country singer, Dolly Parton, recently appeared on the Today show from Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., where she candidly expressed her emotions concerning the loss of her husband, Carl Dean, two months after his passing on March 3. During the interview, Parton, 79, maintained a brave face but couldn’t help getting choked up when discussing Dean, her husband of 60 years.
Parton confessed to Savannah Guthrie on Today, “Oh, you know what, I get very emotional when people bring it up. But we were together 60 years. I’ve loved him since I was 18 years old.” She reflected on the challenges of adjusting to life without Dean, acknowledging, “It’s a big adjustment just trying to change patterns and habits. I’ll do fine, and I’m very involved in my work and that’s been the best thing that could happen to me. But I’ll always miss him, of course, and always love him. He was a great partner to me.”
Despite her grief, Parton expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and love she has received from fans worldwide following her husband’s passing. She joked about Dean’s newfound fame through the outpouring of condolences, highlighting his preference for a private life away from the spotlight while supporting her career behind the scenes.
The singer also reminisced about a heartwarming moment at one of her Dollywood parades, where she interacted with an enthusiastic young fan. “I remember him in the parade. I was thinking, ‘Honey, are you gonna have a heart attack right here in front of everybody?’ It was the sweetest thing. I just wanted to get off of that cart and run down and just squeeze him. It was just great,” Parton shared.
Despite the love and joy she experiences in her public interactions, Parton admitted to getting overwhelmed with emotions after the parade, as it reminded her of her profound loss. The singer shared how the collective outpouring of love and support brought her to tears, reflecting on the depth of her mourning for Dean.
In a heartfelt Instagram post in March, Parton declared her enduring love for Dean, marking 60 years of cherished memories together. She assured fans that their love story would live on in memory and song, with Dean always remaining the star of her life narrative. Furthermore, she dedicated her latest song, “If You Hadn’t Been There,” to her late husband as a tribute to their enduring love.
As Parton continues to navigate life without her beloved husband, she remains grateful for the decades of love and partnership they shared. While the journey forward may be challenging, the music legend is comforted by the memories and legacy they created together. Stay updated on Parton’s journey by signing up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter, featuring the latest news on celebrities, human interest stories, and more.
In conclusion, Dolly Parton’s courageous spirit and candid reflections on love and loss serve as an inspiration to many, showcasing the resilience and strength found in cherished memories and enduring love.