Dolly Parton’s husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean dies aged 82

Country star Dolly Parton’s husband, Carl Dean, whom she married in a secret ceremony when she was 20, has died.

Carl Dean died at the age of 82.

Dean married the country legend in 1966 but avoided the spotlight. He never attended public events with his wife, and the singer shared only a handful of photos of him over the years.

Parton shared the news of her longtime spouse’s death via Instagram on Monday, March 3. His cause of de@th was not immediately announced.

“Carl Dean, husband of Dolly Parton, passed away March 3rd in Nashville at the age of 82. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family attending. He is survived by his siblings Sandra and Donnie,” the post read.

“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’s post continued. “The family asks for privacy during this difficult time.”

Though Dean stayed out of the spotlight and focused on his asphalt business, he supported Dolly from the background.

He inspired one of her most iconic songs: “Jolene.” 

Dean is survived by his wife and siblings.