When Carl Dean passed away on March 3, Dolly Parton lost the love of her life. The pair were together for 60 years, and while Carl stayed out of the spotlight, he adored his wife and supported her career completely. Following Carl’s death, Dolly stayed busy but kept her cards close to her heart. She shared a new song, announced a new book, and celebrated opening day at Dollywood, but nothing’s been quite the same since her husband died. Dolly Parton opened up about Carl Dean’s death in a new heartbreaking interview with Savannah Guthrie on the Today Show.
Videos by InspireMore
Dolly Parton Fell In Love With Carl Dean When She Was Just A Kid
At 79, Dolly Parton’s lived a long and full life, most of which she shared with Carl Dean. She and Carl met when she was 18, and he played a very special role in her life and career.
“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,” Dolly told Savannah.
Dolly said the outpouring of love from her fans after Carl’s death meant the world to her. “I’m so thankful. I’ve gotten so many cards, letters, flowers, from all over the world,” she said. “I had no idea Carl Dean was so famous.”
The Jolene singer said one of the most poignant moments following her husband’s death came at the opening of Dollywood. A little boy in the crowd was so happy to see her, it truly brightened her life in a very dark time. She said she wanted to hump right off the carriage and squeeze the sweet kid.
Dolly Parton will forever miss Carl Dean, and she’s allowing herself to grieve. “I got very emotional that day after the parade because there was just so much love like that,” Dolly told Today. “Right after I had lost Carl and I was just so bottled up with emotion, and I got in the van and just boo-hooed for the longest time, just feeling all that love and emotion.”
This story’s featured image is by Jason Kempin/Getty Images.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.
