BREAKING: The devastating Dolly Parton news is confirmed Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Full story in comments

Carl Dean, businessman and longtime husband to country music goddess Dolly Parton, has passed away.

According to reports, Dean, 82, passed away in his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, yesterday (March 3). Parton, 79, issued an emotional statement detailing how “words can’t do justice to the love” the couple shared.

The pair, married for almost 60 years, renewed their wedding vows nine years ago having initially tied the knot back in May of 1966.

Following news of Dean’s passing being made public, Parton released the following statement: “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.”

Meanwhile, their family have also asked for ‘privacy during this difficult time’. According to reports, Dean will be laid to rest in a private ceremony attended by his immediate family.

Though the couple never had children, Dean and Parton’s commitment to one another was legendary. Despite the rigors of the music industry, as well as the inevitable strain that comes with being as famous as Dolly is, the two lovebirds stuck by one another for over six decades.