Nigeria, March 4 -- Carl Dean, the longtime husband of country music legend Dolly Parton, passed away on Monday, March 3rd, in Nashville, according to a statement released by Parton. He was 82 years old.

Throughout his lifetime, Dean was known for being fiercely private despite being married to one of the most famous singers in the world.

In an emotional statement posted on her website and social media, Parton, 79, expressed her grief, saying:

"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."

Dean and Parton first met outside the Wishy Washy Launderette in Nashville on the very day Parton moved to the city at age 18. Reflecting on ...