Dolly Parton took to social media to post a touching message thanking fans for their outpouring of love and support following the death of her husband, Carl Dean, in early March 2025.

Grateful for the Love

Calling it a “love note,” Dolly expressed deep gratitude to everyone who reached out with flowers, cards, and kind words in honor of Carl. Though she couldn’t respond to each message, she wanted everyone to know how much their support meant to her.

“He’s in God’s arms now,” she wrote. “And I will always love you.”

Nearly 59 Years Together

Dolly and Carl tied the knot in 1966, and were just months away from celebrating their 59th wedding anniversary when he passed. Their marriage stood the test of time, a rare love story in the world of fame.

A Quiet, Steady Presence

Though Dolly often spoke lovingly about Carl, he chose to stay out of the limelight. After attending one of her early award shows, he decided public life wasn’t for him. Instead, he focused on his asphalt business in Nashville and kept things low-key.

Even Friends Never Met Him

Carl’s desire for privacy was so strong that even some of Dolly’s close friends—like Reba McEntire—never met him. But those who knew Dolly knew just how important he was in her life.

Moments She Did Share

While Carl rarely appeared in public, Dolly did share a rare photo of them in 2021. In the caption, she joked, “Find someone who supports you like my Carl does!”—a nod to his quiet but steadfast encouragement over the years.

Selling Their Family Home

In December 2021, the couple’s former Nashville home—a humble four-bedroom house—finally sold after more than a decade on and off the market, closing at $849,000.

Love That Never Fades

Although Carl is gone, Dolly continues to carry him in her heart. Her message is a powerful reminder that even after someone leaves this world, the love they shared lives on.