Dolly Parton's husband, Carl Dean, died on March 3. In a 1977 PEOPLE exclusive, Parton opened up about their private relationship.

Dolly Parton is keeping the memory of her beloved late husband, Carl Dean, close to her heart following his passing on March 3. The iconic singer, who shared the news of his demise, has spoken about being "consoled by the afterlife" and even released a touching tribute song in his honor,

Carl Dean, Dolly Parton’s longtime husband and creative muse (“Jolene“) died at 82 years old. To mourn the death of Dean, Parton stepped away from the public eye. Yesterday (March 14), the multiple CMA and Grammy Award-winner surprised supporters with her first appearance since Dean’s passing during the 40th season celebration for Dollywood theme park in Tennessee.

Dolly Parton has paid tribute to her husband Carl Dean in her first public appearance since his death. The 79-year-old country music singer’s husband died aged 82 on March 3. She paid tribute to him during a surprise concert at the preview for Dollywood season passholders ahead of opening for its 40th season in Tennessee.

Dolly Parton is remembering her late husband, Carl Dean... and it sounds like their love story is not over. The icon touched on Carl's recent death Friday during a sneak peek of Dollywood's upcoming 40th season.