Dolly Parton took to social media to share how deeply moved she was by a recent Grand Ole Opry tribute. She revealed she has “not stopped crying” since watching the heartfelt performance. Though she wasn’t there in person, Parton was profoundly touched as Reba McEntire and Lady A led an all-star choir in a stirring rendition of “I Will Always Love You” during Opry 100: A Live Celebration, broadcast live from the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on Wednesday night (March 19). She opened up about the emotional moment in a post on her Instagram Story.

“I have not stopped crying over the beautiful tribute of ‘I Will Always Love You’ on the 100th Anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry show,” she writes.

“All those beautiful people with all their beautiful voices singing my song as a tribute to my husband Carl … the emotion was beyond words. I have cried enough to wash a great deal of the pain away so thanks to all of you beautiful people that helped make that possible. I also will always love you.”

Parton’s husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, died on March 3 at the age of 82. His cause of death remains undisclosed, but various reports indicate he battled Alzheimer’s and dementia in his later years.

The country music icon turned to social media to post an emotional statement after his death, writing, “This is a love note to family, friends, and fans. Thank you for all of the messages, cards, and flowers that you’ve sent to pay your respects for the loss my beloved husband Carl. I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know that it has meant the world to me. He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you.”

Parton also shared an emotional new song that she dedicated to her husband’s support over the decades, titled “If You Hadn’t Been There.”

The legendary entertainer made her first public appearance since her husband’s death on March 14, joining Dollywood’s opening day for the 2025 season to wave and smile at the fans in attendance.