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Jeannie Seely, the legendary country music singer and an icon of the Grand Ole Opry, passed away at the age of 85 on August 1, 2025, at Summit Medical Center in Hermitage, Tennessee, due to complications from an intestinal infection. Her passing marks the end of a musical journey spanning more than six decades, leaving immense sorrow among fans and fellow artists.
Known as “Miss Country Soul,” Jeannie Seely captivated audiences with her heartfelt voice and bold stage presence. She rose to prominence with her 1966 hit “Don’t Touch Me,” which earned her a Grammy Award and opened the door to a remarkable career at the Grand Ole Opry. Beyond singing, Seely broke barriers as one of the first women to host Opry shows, defying the conventions of her time and becoming a role model for future generations of female artists. Throughout her career, she set a record with 5,397 performances on the Opry stage — a milestone that remains unmatched in the program’s 100-year history.
In her final years, Jeannie Seely faced numerous health challenges. She underwent multiple back surgeries and two emergency abdominal surgeries in the spring of 2025, and she spent 11 days in intensive care due to pneumonia. Despite these struggles, she returned to the Opry stage in February 2025 for her 5,397th performance — a moment that became a touching symbol of her dedication to music and her fans.
Her passing leaves a profound void in the country music community. Many colleagues and fans have expressed their tributes, including Dolly Parton, who remembered Seely as a gifted, strong, and uniquely spirited voice. The Grand Ole Opry dedicated its following show to honor her, a gesture befitting her extraordinary contributions to the genre.
Throughout her career, Jeannie Seely was not only a celebrated performer but also a talented songwriter, with works recorded by icons such as Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and Ray Price. She also challenged Opry’s conservative fashion norms, appearing in short skirts, flared pants, and high boots at a time when female performers were still restricted by rigid dress codes. Even in her later years, she never lost her passion for music, exemplified by her 2020 album An American Classic.
Jeannie Seely may have departed this world, but her music and indomitable spirit will live on. She was not only a voice of country music but also a symbol of perseverance, courage, and an unyielding love for her art. For her fans, Jeannie Seely’s voice will forever echo as part of the soul of country music.