Dolly Parton reflects on husband’s death and makes return to stage
Dolly Parton recently made her first public appearance since her husband, Carl Dean, passed away. She took the opportunity to reflect on his life and talk about what he meant to her.
Parton took to the stage during the 40th anniversary celebration of Dollywood, her theme park in Tennessee. She spoke and performed during the celebration, both of which were incredibly moving tributes to Dean.
“I just want to say thank you and I love you for all the flowers, cards and well-wishes… He would want me to be working today. I expect to be working,” said Parton, addressing her fans and thanking them for their ongoing support, “Of course, I will always love him, and I’ll miss him, but I wanted you to know that I will always love you.”
Taking time to mark the occasion, Parton spoke about Dollywood and its 40 years of operation. She thanked everyone who had visited the theme park for attending and supporting it.
“Thank you to our guests and the community for the support they’ve given to my Dollywood for 40 years,” said Parton. “It’s hard to believe it has been that long, but it never would have lasted if it hadn’t been for you—our guests.”
Dean passed away on March 3rd, 2025. He was 82 when he died, and the couple had been married for almost 60 years. Parton issued a statement following her husband’s death, reminiscing on her time with him and also thanking fans, friends, and family for their support throughout such a difficult period.
“This is a love note to family, friends, and fans. Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you’ve sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Carl,” Parton wrote on a post that was shared to social media. “I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me. He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you.”
Parton also released the song ‘If You Hadn’t Been There’, a tribute to her late husband.
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