‘Miss Country Soul’ Jeannie Seely dies in Nashville at age 85

Jeannie Seely died as a result of complications from an intestinal infection, according to Absolute Publicity.

Best known for her 1966 hit, “Don’t Touch Me,” Seely was the first woman to host the Grand Ole Opry and has appeared on the historic program more than any other performer, with 5,397 Opry performances, her final show being on Feb. 22.

“Don’t Touch Me” earned Seely a Grammy Award, and she became the third-ever female country artist to receive a Grammy Award.

Seely was born in Titusville, Pennsylvania on July 6, 1940 and moved to Nashville after working as a songwriter in California. She is considered a pioneer for female country singers as she famously made her Opry debut in a miniskirt. Seely was among the first women performers to wear jeans, pantsuits and go-go boots.

In May 2010, Seely’s West Nashville home was destroyed in the historic flood. In 2018, she received a star on the Music City Hall of Fame. A year later, Lincoln Memorial University awarded Seely with an honorary Doctor of Arts for her accomplishments in the music industry.

In 2023, Seely was awarded the CMA Joe Talbot Award for her outstanding leadership and contributions to the preservation and advancement of country music’s values and tradition.

Her husband, Gene Ward, died in December 2024 after a recent cancer diagnosis.

The Grand Ole Opry will dedicate its Saturday performance to Seely.

While I’ve had the privilege of working with Jeannie Seely over the past 25 years, my immediate grief is deeply personal. Early in my tenure at CMA, I shared unforgettable lunches with Jeannie and Jo Walker Meador, full of stories that were occasionally irreverent but always fascinating. Jeannie was at the very first Fan Fair with Jack Greene and remained a beloved fixture for decades. She once told me a hilarious story about switching credentials with Dottie West just to keep people on their toes. When the CMA Board honored her with the Joe Talbot Award in 2023, it was for more than her music and fan relationships—it was for her spark. She mentored countless artists, especially women, and while they learned from her confidence and wit, she reminded us she was learning from them too. That humility was part of her magic
Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association

I am praying for Jeannie Seely. I believe that she’s joined Jesus Christ, Gene Ward, Nora Lee Allen, Joe Bonsall, Rusty Golden, and all of our dear loved ones we’ve lost. She made a lasting impact on not only Nashville but the world. Her contribution to country music and the Grand Ole Opry will never be forgotten. Most don’t know, but the last date I had with my beautiful wife was a double date with Jeannie Seely and Gene Ward. My heart is breaking right now.
Duane Allen of The Oak Ridge Boys

She was truly the sweetest and most precious friend I ever had. If ever I had a problem, all I had to do was call Jeannie, and she was there. When I released my book, she called me to do her radio show. She was like a sister and will definitely miss her. I love you, Jeannie!
Nancy Jones, widow of country music star George Jones