Carl Thomas Dean, Dolly Parton’s Ultra-Private Husband of Nearly 60 Years, Dies at 82

Carl Thomas Dean, Dolly Parton’s ultra-private husband, has died at the age of 82.

Dean married the country legend in 1966 but eschewed the spotlight. He never attended public events with his wife, and the singer shared only a handful of photos of him over the years.

Parton shared the news of her longtime spouse’s death via Instagram on Monday, March 3. His cause of death was not immediately announced.

“Carl Dean, husband of Dolly Parton, passed away March 3rd in Nashville at the age of 82. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family attending. He is survived by his siblings Sandra and Donnie,” the post read.

“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,” Parton’s post continued. “The family asks for privacy during this difficult time.”

Dean is survived by his wife and siblings.