Dolly Parton made her first public appearance since the death of her husband, Carl Dean, on March 3. The country music icon took part in the 40th-anniversary preview event of her Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, where she paid a heartfelt tribute to her late husband.
Parton, 77, had kept her relationship with Carl Dean mostly private throughout their 57-year marriage. However, during the ceremony, she opened up to attendees about her loss and the enduring love she has for Dean.
Paying Tribute at Dollywood
“You know how I loved him, and he would want me to be working today. I expect to be working,” Parton told the crowd at the event, explaining why she chose to attend despite her grief. “I just wanted you to know that of course I will always love him, and I’ll miss him, but I wanted you to know that I will always love you.”
Her emotional words were a reflection of the deep bond she shared with Dean, who passed away at the age of 82.
Parton’s presence at the Dollywood anniversary event was a bittersweet moment for fans, who had watched the couple grow together over decades. Known for her bright smile and uplifting energy, Parton’s strength during this difficult time resonated with those in attendance.
A Personal Farewell on Social Media
Just days after Dean’s passing, Dolly Parton shared a heartfelt message on social media, thanking fans for their support. In a post on March 6, she expressed her gratitude for the messages of condolence, flowers, and cards she had received. “This is a love note to family, friends, and fans,” Parton wrote. “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. I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me.”
She concluded the message with a sense of peace: “He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you.”
A New Song in Memory of Carl Dean
To honor her late husband, Parton released a special song titled “If You Hadn’t Been There” on March 7. The song, which features a cover photo of the couple, is a tribute to their 60 years together. Parton shared her emotions with fans in an Instagram post, saying, “I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old. We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together. Like all great love stories, they never end. They live on in memory and song. He will always be the star of my life story, and I dedicate this song to him.”
The song’s release served as a beautiful tribute to their lifelong relationship, and it allowed Parton to share a piece of her personal story with the world.
Dollywood’s 40th Season
In the midst of her mourning, Dolly Parton was also celebrating a significant milestone. Dollywood, the theme park she founded, kicked off its 40th season on March 16. The park, located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, has become a major attraction over the years, drawing millions of visitors each season.
“I can’t believe that we’ve been making memories for folks here at my Dollywood for 40 years,” Parton said in a statement. “That’s a lot of laughter, hugs, and smiles, and I’m glad that we’ve been able to be part of it for so many years.”
In honor of the anniversary, Dollywood unveiled new attractions, including additional food offerings and entertainment shows, ensuring that its 40th season will be one to remember for visitors.
Legacy of Love and Laughter
Dolly Parton’s ability to balance her personal grief with her professional commitments is a testament to her resilience and love for her fans. While she mourns the loss of Carl Dean, she continues to celebrate the legacy of their love through music and her ongoing work at Dollywood.
As the 40th season of Dollywood unfolds, fans from around the world are reminded of the enduring influence of Dolly Parton — both as a musical legend and as a symbol of love, family, and strength.
