Dolly Parton is still grieving the loss of her beloved husband, Carl Dean, who died on March 3 at the age of 82. In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, the 79-year-old country music icon shared her feelings about saying goodbye to her partner of 58 years.

"Of course, I miss him," Parton said, adding that she's still trying to figure out how to be without him after being together for so long. "I'm holding up, I'm doing as well as one can after 60 years, being with and loving somebody."

To honor Dean's memory, Parton released a new song dedicated to him, titled "If You Hadn't Been There." She explained that she wanted to do something special to tribute to her late husband.

Parton also spoke about the bittersweet feelings about losing someone she loves. "He did suffer a lot for the last few years, and there's a part of me that's happy he's at peace and at rest. But then, of course, there's that part of me that will miss him forever and long for him every day. For the rest of my life, I'm sure."

The country music legend also thanked fans for their condolences and support during this difficult time.

Dean's death was announced by Parton on March 3 on Instagram, along with a heartfelt statement. "Carl Dean, husband of Dolly Parton, passed away March 3rd in Nashville at the age of 82. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family attending. He is survived by his siblings Sandra and Donnie."

Parton and Dean met in 1964 outside of a laundromat in Nashville and wed two years later. Throughout their 58-year marriage, he remained out of the spotlight amid Parton's constant presence in the spotlight.

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Parton also shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying "Words can't do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy. The family asks for privacy during this difficult time."

Dean's rare comment about Parton in 2016 was "My first thought was 'I'm gonna marry that girl,' " he told Entertainment Tonight about meeting the "9 to 5" singer.

"My second thought was, 'Lord, she's good lookin.' And that was the day my life began. I wouldn't trade the last 50 years for nothing on this earth."

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Image credits: Dolly Parton/Instagram, Jason Kempin/Getty