Legendary musician Jeannie Seely aka ‘Miss Country Soul’ dies in Nashville at 85 due to intestinal infection
Saloni Jha | Aug 02, 2025, 06:37 IST
Highlight of the story: Jeannie Seely, affectionately known as “Miss Country Soul,” passed away in Nashville at 85 due to complications from an intestinal infection. A Grammy-winning pioneer and Grand Ole Opry icon, Seely broke barriers for women in country music with unmatched charm, resilience, and humility. The Opry will dedicate a tribute in her honour.
The world of country music is mourning the loss of Jeannie Seely, who passed away in Nashville on Friday at the age of 85. Known fondly as “Miss Country Soul,” Seely died from complications related to an intestinal infection, according to her publicist.
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.
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.
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.
Charlie Daniels expressed heartbreak, saying today everyonelost a national treasure, and one fine lady but everyone can mourn but should also celebrate the life of the incomparable Jeannie.
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.
Legendary country musicia
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.
Legendary country musicia
Jeannie Seely’s life full of music
Legendary country musicia
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.
Legendary country musicia
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.
Charlie Daniels expressed heartbreak, saying today everyonelost a national treasure, and one fine lady but everyone can mourn but should also celebrate the life of the incomparable Jeannie.
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.