Dolly Parton’s younger sister, Stella Parton, is honoring the memory of her late
brother-in-law, Carl Dean, following his recent passing. Dean, who was married to the legendary country singer for nearly six decades, died on March 3rd at the age of 82. As the family navigates this difficult time, Stella took to social media to acknowledge the
overwhelming support and heartfelt condolences they have received from the public.
In a message shared on X, Stella expressed gratitude on behalf of her sister Dolly, as well as both their family and Carl’s own relatives. “On behalf of my sister Dolly, our family, and Carl’s family, we appreciate your prayers at this time,” wrote the 75-year-old singer. She further confirmed the news of Dean’s passing, noting that he would be laid to rest in a private ceremony attended only by immediate family members. The announcement also mentioned that Carl is survived by his siblings, Sandra and Donnie.
Dolly Parton, who has often kept her marriage private, also shared a heartfelt statement about the loss of her beloved husband. Reflecting on their decades of life together, the music icon wrote, “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.” She ended her message by requesting privacy as she and her loved ones grieve this profound loss.
Following the heartbreaking news, numerous celebrities and friends offered their condolences. Fellow country star Billy Ray Cyrus was among the first to send his sympathies, commenting, “Sending you all of my love @dollyparton!” His ex-wife, Tish Cyrus, also extended her support by writing, “Love you, Dolly.” The connection between Parton and Billy Ray goes back decades, as the two first became friends in the 1990s while touring together.
During an interview on “The Howard Stern Show” in 2024, Parton reminisced about their long-standing friendship. “I was on tour, and then Billy toured with me, and so that’s how we just got to be good friends. He’s a Kentucky boy, I’m from Tennessee,” she shared. Over the years, their bond only strengthened, leading Parton to become the godmother of Billy Ray and Tish’s daughter, Miley Cyrus.
Interestingly, their connection turned out to be more than just a chosen family dynamic. In a surprising revelation last year, it was discovered that Dolly Parton and Miley Cyrus are actually related. Genealogy service Ancestry confirmed that the two are seventh cousins, once removed, tracing their shared lineage back to an ancestor named John Brickey, who was born in 1740 in Virginia. When Parton learned about the revelation, she was astonished. “Is that true? That’s amazing!” she exclaimed. Playfully, she added, “Well, we’re so close, Miley and I. I would’ve thought we would’ve been at least third cousins, 10 times removed.”
As condolences continued to pour in, other notable figures also took to social media to comfort the grieving singer. Among them was Linda Thompson, mother of Brody Jenner, who left a heartfelt comment on Dolly’s Instagram post. “I am so saddened to read this… But I hope you find some comfort, darling Dolly, in knowing that you brought him many years of love and joy! You are such a gift to the world, and I believe that Carl was a gift to you. Sending you lots of love and deepest condolences.”
Though Carl Dean largely avoided the public eye throughout their marriage, Dolly Parton always spoke highly of their relationship and the deep love they shared. In an interview with E! News in May, she reflected on the secret to their enduring marriage. “It is important to have someone there in your corner, and you know they’ll love you for just who you are,” she explained. She also emphasized the security and reassurance that comes with knowing you are loved unconditionally. “There’s a great comfort in knowing that someone loves you exactly for who you are—because he fell in love with me before I became a star.”
The bond between Dolly and Carl was one that withstood the test of time, strengthened by mutual understanding and respect. “To him, I’m his star,” she affectionately stated, highlighting how their marriage thrived despite her immense fame. She further explained that their unique dynamic worked because they led separate professional lives, making their time together even more special.
As the world mourns alongside Dolly Parton and her family, her words serve as a touching tribute to the man who stood by her side for over 60 years. The love and support from friends, family, and fans alike continue to offer comfort during this difficult period, honoring the legacy of Carl Dean and the profound impact he had on those who knew and loved him.
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