Dolly Parton’s husband of nearly 60 years which inspired hit song “Jolene” died at the age of 82

Carl Dean, the husband of hit country singer and national treasure of Tennessee, Dolly Parton , died at the age of 82 in March the 3rd in 2025. The inspiration of one of Dolly Parton’s hit song “Jolene” they were in a devoted relationship for 60 years. He laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family attending. According to the statement made by The Associated Press by Parton’s publicists he passed in Nashville, Tennessee.

"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," Parton wrote in a statement. The family has asked for respect and privacy, not announcing cause of death.

Parton and Dean had met outside the Wishy-Washy laundromat the day she moved to Nashville at 18. Dean was a businessman, having owned an asphalt-paving business in Nashville. His parents, Virginia “Ginny” Bates Dean and Edgar “Ed” Henry Dean had three children. Parton referred to his mother as "Mama Dean."

March 7th 2025 Dolly Parton released a new song in honor of her husband’s passing. Titled “If you hadn’t been there”. This song is very heartfelt and shines a light on their relationship. The ballad looks back on the love and support Parton received from Dean throughout their nearly six decades of marriage. The release of this song follows an overflowing amount of love Parton has received over the last week. On Thursday, Parton released a statement on Instagram to express her gratitude.

"This is a love note to family, friends, and fans. Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you’ve sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Carl," Parton said. "I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me. Parton announced the release of the single "If You Hadn’t Been There" on Friday in an Instagram post.

"I fell in love with Carl Dean when I was 18 years old. We have spent 60 precious and meaningful years together," Parton said. "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."

This entire situation was emotional and Parton’s last message to her husband shall be remembered