Dolly Parton's Late Husband Carl Dean Inspired One of Her Greatest Hits

Dolly Parton has revealed that her late husband, Carl Dean, was the inspiration behind one of her most iconic hits, "Jolene." Dean, who passed away on March 3 at the age of 82, left a legacy that includes influencing the lyrics of this chart-topping song.

The story dates back to the 1970s when Dean caught the attention of a bank teller who developed a serious crush on him. Parton, with her signature wit, turned the situation into the now-famous plea to "Jolene" to spare her husband. She described the song as "innocent," although its emotional punch might suggest otherwise. "It was kind of like a running joke between us," Parton recalled during an NPR interview, teasing Dean for his frequent trips to the bank. "I don’t believe we’ve got that kind of money."

The name "Jolene" itself has a different origin. Parton explained that she was inspired by a strikingly beautiful eight-year-old girl she met at one of her performances. The girl’s name resonated with her, and Parton vowed to turn it into a song. "It sounds like a song," she told her audience that night, and history was made.

Released in 1973, "Jolene" soared to the top of Billboard’s country music chart and has since been covered by countless artists, including Miley Cyrus and Beyoncé. Parton credits the song’s universal appeal to its simplicity, saying that even a child can belt out its repetitive chorus: "Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene." Honestly, who hasn’t hummed that part at some point?

Dean’s death was confirmed by Parton on Instagram. "Carl and I spent many wonderful years together," she wrote, reflecting on their more than 60 years of marriage. She also expressed gratitude for the well-wishes and prayers during this difficult time. Dean will be laid to rest in a private ceremony attended by close family.

The pair first met at a laundromat when Parton was just 18 and Dean was 21. They tied the knot in 1966, beginning a marriage that was notably private despite Parton’s superstar status. Dean rarely appeared in public alongside his famous wife, but his quiet support was a cornerstone of her success.