‘Jolene’ Inspiration and Dolly Parton’s Devoted Husband, Carl Dean, Dies at 82

Carl Dean, the husband of country music icon Dolly Parton and the man who inspired her hit song “Jolene,” has died at the age of 82. The news was confirmed on Monday, with Parton releasing a heartfelt statement about her husband’s passing.

“Carl Dean, my husband of 57 years, has passed away,” Parton said. “As you all know, he has always been a quiet and private person, and I have always respected that.”

Dolly Parton’s husband of nearly 60 years Carl Dean has passed away at 82.

Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/8I2Fqvf2Tk

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Dean and Parton were married for nearly six decades, maintaining one of the most private relationships in the entertainment industry. Despite Parton’s global fame, Dean largely stayed out of the spotlight, rarely making public appearances or granting interviews.

Dean was famously the inspiration behind Parton’s song “Jolene,” released in 1973. The singer had previously shared that the song was based on a real-life incident where a bank teller flirted with her husband. “She had everything I didn’t,” Parton once said. “She had beautiful red hair, long green eyes, and she was tall. And he just loved going to the bank because of her.”

Throughout their marriage, Dean remained a steadfast presence in Parton’s life, offering support while staying away from her public career. The couple renewed their vows in 2016 in a private ceremony to mark their 50th wedding anniversary.

Tributes poured in following the announcement of Dean’s passing. Several figures from the country music world expressed their condolences. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee acknowledged Dean’s passing, stating, “Carl Dean was a man of quiet strength. He supported Dolly through decades of music history, and we send our prayers to her and their family.”

Dolly Parton once said Carl Dean only ever saw her perform once in over 60 years together. He loved her for her, not for the rhinestones. He’s passed away at 82, but their kind of love doesn’t die. pic.twitter.com/i1briFuYTg

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While Dean rarely stepped into the public eye, his presence in Parton’s life remained significant. In a 2020 interview, Parton shared that despite their vastly different public personas, they maintained a strong relationship. “We have a great sense of humor, and we’ve just been best friends,” she said. “He’s not in the music business, so we have different interests, but we have things we love to do together.”

Dean’s passing marks the end of an era for Parton, whose career has spanned over six decades. While Parton has not indicated any changes to her current projects, she has asked for privacy during this difficult time.

The cause of Dean’s death has not been disclosed.