The man who stole Dolly Parton’s heart nearly six decades ago has passed away.
On Monday, March 3, the 79-year-old country legend confirmed that her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, died at the age of 82 in Nashville. The couple, who kept their relationship largely out of the public eye, had been married since 1966.
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“Carl and I spent many wonderful years together,” Parton shared on Instagram. “Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.”
Dean will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with close family. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
After the news broke, it didn’t take long for fans to flood the post with love and support.
“I am so so sorry for your loss, Dolly. I’m glad you got so many wonderful years with him,” one person wrote.
“Sending lots of love to you, Dolly 
RIP Carl,” another said.
“The whole world is wrapping their arms around you, Dolly. You are the definition of “beloved” and we all send our love and prayers,” someone else added.
But it wasn’t just fans who were reaching out — celebrities joined in too.
“Oh my heart! I am so sorry for your loss! My heart aches for you! My deepest condolences. 
praying for you and sending you love and prayers 
,” Khloé Kardashian commented.
“Oh Dolly 
,” Bunnie Xo, fellow country singer Jelly Roll’s wife, added.
Even Cracker Barrel’s official account shared their support, posting, “Sending you and your family all our love, Dolly 
.”
Happy Valentine’s Day y’all! Remember to squeeze your loved ones a little tighter today and tell them you love ‘em!
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) February 14, 2022
Though Dean preferred to stay behind the scenes, Parton often shared glimpses of their love story over the years. “I married a really good man, a guy that’s completely different from me,” she told Parade in 2015. “He’s not in show business.”
In 2016, the couple renewed their vows for their 50th anniversary at their home in Nashville. “We just had a simple little ceremony at our chapel at our place,” the Grammy winner told Rolling Stone.
As for the key to their lasting love? Parton summed it up best during a 2015 chat with People. “They say that opposites attract, and it’s true,” the “Jolene” hitmaker explained to the outlet at the time. “We’re completely opposite, but that’s what makes it fun.”
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