Death was announced for Carl Dean, Dolly Parton’s husband, on Monday. He was 82. The couple shared nearly 60 years together. Carl Dean’s legacy reflects his private life. Dolly Parton revealed that he inspired “Jolene.”
Officials confirmed the passing in Nashville, Tennessee. A statement was provided by Parton’s . The family planned a private ceremony for Carl Dean’s burial, allowing only immediate relatives to attend.
Dolly Parton wrote, “Carl and I spent wonderful years together. “Words can’t capture our love,” she added. She thanked everyone for their prayers in the statement. The family requested privacy. They did not share the cause of death.
Dolly Parton met Carl Dean at 18 outside a laundromat and fondly recalled their first chat. They married on May 30, 1966, in Georgia. Carl Dean ran an asphalt business in Nashville.
Carl Dean’s Legacy
“Jolene” was born from a bank teller’s crush on Carl Dean. Dolly Parton joked about it to NPR. They fiercely guarded their privacy for decades. Some even doubted Carl Dean existed, Parton quipped.
Carl Dean influenced “Rockstar” in 2023. Dolly Parton said he loved “My Blue Tears.” She explained that she added rock covers to match his taste. Carl Dean is survived by his siblings, Sandra and Donnie.
Husband and wife kept love alive quietly. Death now separates them after 60 years.
Source: AP News
