Dolly Parton Says Husband Carl Was ‘Ill for Quite A While’ Before Death

Dolly Parton has shared new details surrounding the death of her late husband Carl Dean, who passed away almost three months ago.

Speaking to The Independent on Wednesday, May 28, Parton, 79, revealed Dean had been “ill for quite a while” before he died at age 82 in March.

“I really feel his presence. I just try to go on, because I know I have to,” the “Jolene” singer told the outlet. “And he was ill for quite a while, and part of me was at peace that he was at peace and not suffering anymore. But that still doesn’t make up for the loss and the loneliness of it.”

Parton added that she believes she and Dean will be reunited in the afterlife.

Dolly Parton Says Husband Carl Dean ‘Suffered a Great Deal’ Before Death

“I am a person of faith, and I truly believe that I’m going to see him again someday,” she added.

The Grammy winner was also candid about how she’s been coping following the loss of her husband, who she had been with for almost 60 years.

“And I see him every day in my memories and in my heart, and in all the things that we used to do and all the things that we’ve built together,” Parton went on. “You just kind of have to learn to kind of make new plans – but that’s the hardest part.”

Parton and Dean tied the knot in May 1966, two years after the couple first met in Nashville. The couple first crossed paths at the Wishy Washy Laundromat the same day she moved to town to begin her music career.

Earlier this month, Parton again spoke about her grief in the wake of Dean’s death.

“Oh, you know what, I get very emotional when people bring it up,” Parton, said during a virtual interview with Today’s Savannah Guthrie on May 2. “We were together [for] 60 years. I’ve loved him since I was 18 years old.”

Dolly Parton Says Husband Carl Dean’s Death Has Been ‘A Big Adjustment’

She continued: “It’s a big adjustment just trying to change patterns and habits. I’ll do fine, and I’m very involved in my work and that’s been the best thing that could happen to me. I’ll always miss him, of course, and always love him. He was a great partner to me.”

Parton announced Dean’s death via an Instagram statement on March 3.

“Carl and I spent many wonderful years together,” Parton captioned the post. “Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.”