Dolly Parton Dedicates Heartfelt Song to Late Husband Carl Dean

Dolly Parton is honoring the love of her life in the best way she knows how—through music. After the passing of her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, last week, the country legend dedicated a deeply personal new song to him titled “If You Hadn’t Been There.”

In a heartfelt message shared on Friday, Dolly reflected on their decades-long love story, writing, “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 emotional lyrics capture the depth of their bond:

“If you hadn’t been there, where would I be?
Without your trust, love, and belief…
The ups and downs we’ve always shared…
And I wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t been there.”

Fans have long admired Dolly and Carl’s private yet enduring relationship, and this tribute is a beautiful way to celebrate the love they shared.

(Excuse us while we grab some tissues—this one hits right in the heart.)