Dolly Parton & Carl Dean’s 59-Year Marriage: 6 Secrets to Lasting Love!
Dolly Parton and Carl Thomas Dean shared a love that lasted more than six decades before Dean’s passing on March 3 at age 82.
“Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years,“ Parton wrote in a heartfelt tribute. Their relationship was a perfect example of how opposites attract—Dolly, the global superstar, and Carl, the private, reserved man who preferred life out of the spotlight.
A Chance Meeting & Instant Connection
Their love story began outside the Wishy Washy Laundromat in Nashville on the day Parton moved to the city. As she waited for her laundry, Dean spotted her and struck up a conversation.
“My first thought was, ‘I’m gonna marry that girl.’ My second thought was, ‘Lord, she’s good lookin’,’“ Dean recalled in 2016.
Parton was drawn to how he focused on her as a person, not just her looks. Two years later, on May 30, 1966, they married—starting a nearly 59-year journey together.
Dolly Parton & Carl Dean’s Enduring Love: Their Secrets to a 59-Year Marriage
Dolly Parton and Carl Dean’s decades-long marriage thrived on love, laughter, and mutual respect. Though opposites in many ways, their bond remained unbreakable. Here’s how they made it work:
1. Embracing Their Differences
“They say opposites attract, and it’s true,“ Parton said. While she thrived in the spotlight, Dean preferred a quiet life—but that contrast kept things exciting.
2. Appreciating Each Other
Despite being a natural flirt, Parton always valued her marriage. “I know I’ve got something at home I wouldn’t risk for anything in the world,” she once said.
3. Giving Each Other Space
Spending time apart helped their marriage last. “I stay going,” Parton joked, explaining that their time together was more special because of it.
4. Understanding & Trusting Each Other
Dean never resented Parton’s fame and always supported her career. “He understands me, he gets me, and he’s never been jealous,” she shared.
5. Keeping Each Other Laughing
Their shared sense of humor kept their relationship strong. Even during tough times, laughter was their best tool for overcoming challenges.
6. Keeping the Spark Alive
For Dean’s 79th birthday, Parton dressed up in a Playboy bunny outfit, saying, “He still thinks I’m a hot chick, and I’m not going to talk him out of that.”
Their love story proves that opposites truly can attract—and last a lifetime.
This article was originally published on TODAY.com