To mourn the death of Dean, Parton stepped away from the public eye. Yesterday (March 14), the multiple CMA and Grammy Award-winner surprised supporters with her first appearance since Dean’s passing during the 40th season celebration for Dollywood theme park in Tennessee.

Dolly Parton has made her first public appearance since the death of her husband, Carl Dean. Nearly two weeks after his death, Parton stepped out to attend an opening day event for Dollywood season passholders on March 14. The event was held in honor of the theme park’s 40th season celebration in Tennessee.

The moment was met with cheers from the audience, with fans shouting their love to the songstress. Parton performed her song "Celebrate The Dreamer In You" before participating in Dollywood's opening day parade, where she waved to the crowd from a carriage.