Carl Dean’s niece has taken over administration of the late businessman’s estate after Dolly Parton, who had initially been appointed to handle it, died before the process was finalised.
Court documents name Dea Chaggin Cunningham Williams as administrator of Dean’s finances. Parton was appointed following Dean’s death on 3 March 2025, but the matter remained unresolved while she dealt with her own health problems.
Dean, who was 82 when he died, left his entire estate to Parton in his will. The document also set out how the assets should be distributed if he outlived her.
Under those provisions, Dean’s assets are to be divided between his five nieces and nephews and Parton’s 14 nieces and nephews. Parton died on 25 August, almost 18 months after her husband, aged 80, following a battle with cancer.
Among the named beneficiaries is Parton’s nephew Bryan Seaver, who is involved in a court dispute with the singer’s manager.
