Legendary musician Jeannie Seely aka ‘Miss Country Soul' dies in Nashville at 85 due to intestinal infection
A goodbye to a country icon Jeannie Seely
Her impact on the country scene cannot be overstated, Seely was not only a Grammy winner for her 1966 breakout hit Don't Touch Me, but also a woman of many firsts. She became the first female artist to host the Grand Ole Opry and performed on its historic stage a record-breaking 5,397 times, with her final appearance on February 22.
Jeannie Seely's life full of music
Born in Titusville, Pennsylvania on July 6, 1940, Seely's journey took her from songwriting in California to the heart of Nashville's music industry. Her bold spirit helped redefine fashion and performance norms at the Opry, she famously made her debut in a miniskirt and later helped normalise jeans, go-go boots and pantsuits for female performers.
Even after personal setbacks, including the loss of her West Nashville home in the 2010 flood, Seely remained unstoppable. She earned a star on the Music City Hall of Fame in 2018 and an honorary Doctor of Arts degree in 2019 from Lincoln Memorial University.
Her beloved husband, Gene Ward, whom she lost in December 2024 to cancer, was a steady presence by her side until the very end.
Tributes pouring for Jeannie Seely
Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association, reflected on Seely's irreverent humour and mentorship, sharing that Seely had a spark that extended far beyond her music. She was known to swap credentials with Dottie West just for fun and always balanced confidence with humility. Actor Billy Ray Cyrus also wrote an emotional farewell message for the musician.
.It is with a heavy heart we say goodbye to a true icon to us here the Opry, Mrs. Jeannie Seely. 🤍Jeannie is the definition of a mentor and dear friend to many in the country music community.She first appeared at the Opry in 1966 and while it was her first time being shoulder… pic.twitter.com/Buf18pyXs9
That hug… was everything. 💔 Jeannie Seely had a way of making you feel seen, heard, and truly loved. Her heart was as big as her voice and both were pure gold. I'll carry that moment, and her friendship, with me forever. Rest in peace, sweet Jeannie. The @opry stage and this… pic.twitter.com/0zPC6N4Vc7
Charlie Daniels expressed heartbreak, saying today everyone lost a national treasure, and one fine lady but everyone can mourn but should also celebrate the life of the incomparable Jeannie.
We lost a national treasure today, and one fine lady. Tonight we mourn but also celebrate the life of the incomparable, Jeannie @seelyofficial. She was an amazing talent, and had been a member of the Grand Ole @Opry since 1967 and appeared over 5,000 times. She also appeared on… pic.twitter.com/HgPwJ5OEF7
Nancy Jones, widow of George Jones, called Seely the 'sweetest and most precious friend' she had ever known, adding that she was like a sister who always showed up in times of need.
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