Musicadolly Parton makes first public appearance after the death of the countryman was married for almost 60 years to Carl Dean, who inspired the success “Jolene” and died in early March at the 82 -year newsroom

Article published on March 17, 2025 at Rolling Stone. To read the original in English, click here.

Icon of American country music, DOLLY PARTONhas made the first public appearance since the death of her husband, Carl Deanand took the opportunity to reflect on what he meant to her. The singer took the stage at the celebration of the 40th anniversary of her theme park Dollywoodin Tennessee to present and speak.

I just want to say ‘thank you’ and ‘I love you’ for all the flowers, cards and wishes of happiness … He would like me to be working today. I hope to work. “

After thanking fans for compassion, she added, referring to her 1974 classic, “Jolene”: “Of course I will always love him and miss him, but I wanted you to know that I will always love you.”

PARTON also paid tribute to the visitors of the Dollywood In the last four decades during the event. “Thanks to our guests and the community for the support they have given me in the last 40 years,” he said. “It’s hard to believe it’s been so long, but I would never have lasted if it wasn’t for you – our guests.”

The singer presented an acoustic version of “Celebrate The Dreamer In You”revealing to the crowd that it was the song they made on the 20th anniversary.

Dean He died at the age of 82 earlier this month. The couple was together for almost 60 years. PARTON He issued a statement a few days after his death thanking fans for his support.

“This is a love note for family, friends and fans. Thank you for all the messages, cards and flowers you sent to pay your honors for the loss of my beloved husband Carl”He wrote on social networks. “I can’t talk to each of you personally, but know that you meant the world to me. He is in God’s arms now and I’m fine with it. I will always love you. ”

Then the singer shared a new song, “If You Hadn’t Been There”, “in honor of her partner.” Carl and I fell in love when I was 18 and he was 23, and like all the great love stories, they never end. They live in memory and music, and I dedicate it to him, “he wrote.

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