The country music community is in mourning with the death of Carl Dean, the long-time husband of singing legend Dolly Parton, who died at 82. Dean, whose reclusive ways and steadfast backing of his wife’s professional endeavors have been well-documented, died peacefully at his Nashville, Tennessee, home surrounded by family.
Dean and Parton wed in 1966, two short years after he first met the then-just-became-famous-for-“Jolene” superstar outside a Tennessee laundromat. With Parton as famous as a star can ever be, Dean opted to lead a low-profile life, mostly avoiding public gatherings or her much-publicized soirees.
His reserved but rock-solid company supported Parton’s professional and personal existence, which she often called her “rock” and “greatest love.”Carl was my everything,” Parton wrote in a statement. “He was my best friend, my partner, and my greatest supporter.
Though the world knew me, he was the one who really knew my heart. I will miss him more than words can ever say.”Dean’s death has prompted an avalanche of tributes from fans and fellow celebrities, who admired his devotion and the long-standing love affair he had with Parton.
Through all the trials and tribulations of fame, their marriage was strong for almost six decades, a testament to the rarity in Hollywood.” Carl Dean was the unsung hero behind one of the most talented artists of our time,” country singer Kenny Rogers said in his eulogy.
“His commitment and support allowed Dolly to shine, and his legacy will live on through her music and the thousands of lives she’s touched.”He was one of those mysterious types whom the public was never allowed to see.
His interviews or public appearances hardly bothered him. Parton many times said her husband preferred “to stay out of sight and let me be the star.” But friends said he was an easygoing, kind man blessed with a quick wit and unending love for his wife.
The last few years had witnessed Dean’s health declining, and Parton had curtailed her frenetic rate of work to spend quality moments with him.
Their long-standing association was a testament to the depth of each one’s love for the other even as Parton’s career touched new peaks.
As the world bids farewell to Carl Dean, his is a legacy of quiet strength and unwavering love. While he stayed out of the spotlight, his contribution to Dolly Parton’s life and career was priceless.
