Country music icon Dolly Parton has paid tribute to her husband, Carl Dean, following his death at the age of 82. The couple was married for almost 60 years and met in 1966 when Parton was just 18.
According to Parton, she was drawn to Dean’s business acumen and Nashville asphalt company. However, it was a flirtatious bank teller that inspired one of her biggest hits, “Jolene.” In the song, Dean becomes the object of attention from Jolene, prompting Parton to pen a sassy response.
Parton has revealed that Dean was initially embarrassed by the song’s lyrics but understood that she was simply jealous of his affection for another woman. Over the years, Dean has been cited as an inspiration for many of Parton’s works, including her 2023 album Rockstar, which features songs chosen from his favorites.
The couple kept their relationship private, leading some to doubt its existence. In fact, Parton joked in 1984 that she had only seen him perform once. However, Dean was a “romantic” who would occasionally write poems for her.
Dean will be laid to rest in a private ceremony, with immediate family in attendance. Parton has expressed gratitude for the love they shared and thanks fans for their prayers and sympathy.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/news/dolly-parton-carl-dean-husband-jolene-story-b2708517.html