Dolly Parton’s loyal husband of over 60 years, Carl Dean, who shunned the limelight and served as the inspiration for her classic hit song “Jolene,” passed away on Monday. He was eighty-two.
Dean passed away in Nashville, Tennessee, according to a statement Parton’s publicist sent to The Associated Press. His close relatives will attend the private ceremony where he will be buried.
“I had a lot of amazing years with Carl. The love we had for more than 60 years is beyond words. “I appreciate your condolences and prayers,”
Parton stated in a statement.The family has requested privacy and respect. The reason of death was not disclosed.
The day Parton went to Nashville at the age of 18, she met Dean outside the Wishy Washy Laundromat. Parton said of the encounter,
“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.”
