Dolly Parton's husband, Carl Dean, dies aged 82

Dolly Parton, a beloved country music star, has recently shared heartbreaking news about the passing of her husband, Carl Dean, who died at the age of 82. Carl was known for being a very private person throughout their nearly 60-year marriage. Dolly announced his death on social media, expressing her deep sorrow with the words, '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. ' This heartfelt message shows just how much Carl meant to her and the profound love they shared. The couple's love story began when Dolly was just 18 years old. She had just moved to Nashville, eager to pursue her dreams of becoming a singer. On her very first day in the city, she met Carl outside a laundromat. Dolly fondly recalled their first encounter, saying, 'I was surprised and delighted that while he talked to me, he looked at my face (a rare thing for me). He seemed to be genuinely interested in finding out who I was and what I was about. ' This initial connection blossomed into a beautiful relationship, and just two years later, on May 30, 1966, they exchanged vows in a private ceremony in Ringgold, Georgia. Throughout their marriage, Carl chose to stay out of the public eye, focusing instead on his work in the asphalt-paving business in Nashville. Despite his absence from the limelight, Carl had a significant influence on Dolly's music. One of her most famous songs, 'Jolene,' was inspired by a story involving a bank teller who developed a crush on Carl. Dolly explained, 'She got this terrible crush on my husband,' and added that it became a running joke between them. 'I don't believe we've got that kind of money,' she would tease him about his frequent visits to the bank. Their relationship was so private that some people even speculated that Carl did not exist at all. Dolly humorously addressed these rumors, saying, 'A lot of people say there's no Carl Dean, that he's just somebody I made up to keep other people off me. ' Dolly and Carl did not have any children together, but he is survived by his siblings, Sandra and Donnie. Dolly's statement about Carl reflects the deep bond they shared and the love that will always remain in her heart. Their long-lasting relationship is admired by many, and Dolly will always cherish the wonderful memories they created together.