DOLLY Parton has shared an emotional note with her fans thanking them for their support following the death of her husband Carl Dean. 

Carl passed away earlier this week aged 82 after almost 60 years of marriage to country icon Dolly, 79.

Today the Jolene hitmaker took to social media to express her gratitude to fans for their support during the difficult time.

She said: “This is a love note to family, friends and fans.

“Thank you for all the messages, cards and flowers that you’ve sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Carl.

“I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me. He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that.”

Referencing one of her best-known songs, Dolly signed off: “I will always love you.”

Earlier this week Dolly revealed Carl – who was last seen in public in 2019 – died on Monday in Nashville.

The family will hold a private ceremony for him.

She shared a heartbreaking tribute to her late partner on Instagram, 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.”

Dolly did not reveal her husband’s cause of death but had previously been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2019.

Carl was a private person who rarely entered the media spotlight or made public appearances with Dolly.

Instead he owned a successful asphalt laying company in Nashville.