Dolly Parton Reflects on Life After Her Husband's Passing: 'Doing Better Than I Thought'

Dolly Parton, the beloved country music icon, is sharing her thoughts on life after the passing of Carl Dean, her husband of 60 years. In her first public appearance since Dean’s death earlier this month, Parton spoke candidly at Dollywood while celebrating the theme park's 40th season.

"I'm doing better than I thought I would," Parton revealed during an interview with Knox News. "I've been with him 60 years. So, I'm going to have to relearn some of the things that we've done. But I'll keep him always close."

The couple’s love story began in 1964 when they met outside a laundromat in Nashville. Parton was 18, Dean was 21, and two years later, they tied the knot in a private ceremony. Staying true to their low-profile lifestyle, their marriage remained largely out of the public eye.

Parton described Dean as supportive in all her ventures, including Dollywood. She revealed that he often visited the park solo, purchasing his own ticket instead of using his celebrity connection. "He used to come to the park; he bought his own ticket — stood in line and got his ticket. He didn't want somebody giving him a ticket ‘cause he was Dolly’s husband," she shared, chuckling at his modest approach.

Dean, who was known for his quiet nature, would offer constructive feedback after his Dollywood visits. According to Parton, his observations were practical and thoughtful — from suggesting more bathrooms to noting areas that could be less crowded. "He wasn’t coming to criticize," she explained. "He would say, ‘You might want to bring this to their attention.’"

Though his passing has left a void in her life, Parton expressed peace knowing that Dean, who suffered greatly in his final days, is now at rest. "It's a hole in my heart, you know, but we'll fill that up with good stuff, and he'll still always be with me," she said.

Parton announced Dean's death on Instagram March 3, sharing that he passed away at the age of 82 in Nashville. "Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years," she wrote, thanking fans for their prayers and sympathy.

Even as she mourns, Parton’s resilience shines through. She plans to honor Dean's memory by embracing the things he loved — including, perhaps, strolling through Dollywood just as he once did.