In a statement shared on social media, Dolly Parton announced the death of her husband Carl Dean, who passed away Monday at the age of 82, marking the end of a remarkable nearly 60-year marriage.
Dolly Parton Mourns the Loss of Her Beloved Husband Carl Dean at 82

Dolly Parton Mourns the Loss of Her Beloved Husband Carl Dean at 82
The country music legend reflects on a lifetime of love and memories following Dean's passing.
Dolly Parton, the iconic country music singer, is grieving the loss of her beloved husband, Carl Dean, who died on Monday in Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 82. In an emotional post on social media, the music star expressed her deep sorrow, stating, "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."
Dolly first encountered Dean as an 18-year-old newcomer in Nashville, outside a laundromat, where she was drawn to his genuine interest in her. Two years later, the couple exchanged vows on May 30, 1966, in a private ceremony in Ringgold, Georgia. Throughout their marriage, Dean prioritized his privacy, focusing on his asphalt-paving business while staying out of the spotlight.
Despite his low profile, Dean's influence was evident in Parton's work, most notably in the inspiration behind her classic song "Jolene." In interviews, Parton recounted how the song tells the story of a bank teller who developed a crush on Dean, leading to lighthearted banter between them.
Speculation surrounded Dean's existence due to his elusive nature. Parton humorously addressed these rumors in 1984, quipping about being perceived as someone who made up a husband to fend off unwanted attention. Parton and Dean, who had no children together, leave behind cherished memories, and he is survived by his siblings, Sandra and Donnie.
Dolly first encountered Dean as an 18-year-old newcomer in Nashville, outside a laundromat, where she was drawn to his genuine interest in her. Two years later, the couple exchanged vows on May 30, 1966, in a private ceremony in Ringgold, Georgia. Throughout their marriage, Dean prioritized his privacy, focusing on his asphalt-paving business while staying out of the spotlight.
Despite his low profile, Dean's influence was evident in Parton's work, most notably in the inspiration behind her classic song "Jolene." In interviews, Parton recounted how the song tells the story of a bank teller who developed a crush on Dean, leading to lighthearted banter between them.
Speculation surrounded Dean's existence due to his elusive nature. Parton humorously addressed these rumors in 1984, quipping about being perceived as someone who made up a husband to fend off unwanted attention. Parton and Dean, who had no children together, leave behind cherished memories, and he is survived by his siblings, Sandra and Donnie.