Journalist Alanna Nash recounted her visit to Parton's Nashville home in 1977 Dolly Parton may have been one of pop culture’s most famous faces, but details of her private life at home with husband Carl Dean have always been something of a mystery.

Mr. Dean, who inspired songs including “Jolene” and “From Here to the Moon and Back,” was known to shy away from the spotlight as his wife rose to fame.

One of the few journalists ever to meet Carl Dean, Alanna Nash, recalls what it was like encountering Dolly Parton's very reclusive husband at home.