Dolly Parton is "doing better" than she thought she would following the death of her husband

Speaking to Knox News, Dolly shared: "I'm doing better than I thought I would.

"I've been with him 60 years. So, I'm going to have to relearn some of the things that we've done. But I'll keep him always close."

The 'Jolene' hitmaker - who married Carl in 1966 - admitted that her late husband "suffered a great deal" before he passed away. But Dolly is now "at peace that he's at peace".

She added: "[It's] a hole in my heart, you know, but we'll fill that up with good stuff and he'll still always be with me."

Dolly announced the passing of her husband on March 3.

The 79-year-old star said on Instagram at the time: "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.

"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.

"The family asks for privacy during this difficult time."

Carl made a concerted effort to keep a low profile during his life, and Dolly previously admitted that they were "completely opposite" characters.

The country music icon told PEOPLE in 2015: "They say that opposites attract, and it's true. We're completely opposite, but that's what makes it fun. I never know what he's gonna say or do. He's always surprising me.

"My husband is a good man, first of all. He's a deep person, but he has a great and warped sense of humour. He makes me laugh and entertains me. He's very secure within himself."