Dolly Parton Honors Late Husband with Emotional Tribute Song, 'If You Hadn’t Been There'
Famed country singer Dolly Parton released a song honoring her late husband on Friday while also sharing a statement thanking fans for their outpouring of support. Parton's husband, Carl Dean, a private man who ran an asphalt-paving business in Tennessee, died on March 3 at the age of 82. He first crossed paths with Parton in 1964 outside the Wishy Washy Laundromat and was the inspiration for several of her songs, including Jolene.
"This is a love note to family, friends, and fans," Parton wrote on social media. "Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you've sent to pay your respects to my beloved husband Carl. I can't reach out personally to each of you, but just know it has meant the world to me. He is in God's arms now, and I am okay with that. I will always love you."
Parton also released a new song, If You Hadn't Been There, in memory of Dean.
"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."
Dean and Parton renewed their vows for their 50th wedding anniversary in 2016. "And that was the day my life began. I wouldn't trade the last 50 years for nothing on this earth," Dean said then, according to The Tennessean.
Following are the lyrics to If You Hadn't Been There:
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; if you hadn't been you, well, who would I be?; you've always seen the best in me; your loving arms have cradled me; you held me close, and I believe.
I wouldn't be here, if you hadn't been there; holding my hand, showing you care; you made me dream, more than I dared; and I wouldn't bе here, if you hadn't been therе; oh, you are my rock, a soft place to land; my wings, my confidence, you understand; your willingness, beyond compare; no, I wouldn't be here, if you hadn't been there.
I wouldn't be here, if you hadn't been there; pushing me on, when I was scared; I thank God and you, oh, for your loving care; and for giving me love with more to spare; you made me climb and top the stairs; I wouldn't be here, I wouldn't be here, if you hadn't been there; I wouldn't be here, if you hadn't been there.
WATCH: Dolly Parton - If You Hadn’t Been There (Official Audio)
Photo Credit: ©YouTube/Dolly Parton
Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, The Christian Post, the Leaf-Chronicle, the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel.
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Originally published March 12, 2025.
