To the younger set of country music superstars, Jeannie Seely was a mentor, a confidant and a trusted source of advice about all things music business.
But to older generations of female country superstars, she was a cherished friend and comrade who brought heart and humor to every stage of their careers.
- Jeannie Seely died on Friday (Aug. 1.) She was 85.
- Her cause of death was complications from an intestinal infection.
- She had been facing health issues for the better part of a year, including two emergency surgeries and an ICU stay in April.
After her death, some of country music’s most legendary women weighed in to share remembrances of Seely, and some special memories of her through the years.
Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton remembered Seely as a close friend who’d been there for her since early on in their respective careers.
“She was one of my dearest friends,” Parton wrote.
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The singer praised Seely’s vocal talents, but most of her remembrance focused on their personal relationship and Seely’s unwavering friendship.
Dolly Parton
“She had a wonderful sense of humor,” Parton’s tribute continues. “We had many wonderful laughs together, cried over certain things together and she will be missed.”
Reba McEntire
Reba McEntire also emphasized how Seely’s unsinkable personality benefited the country music community.
“I’ve always loved this woman!” McEntire wrote, sharing a photo of herself and Parton with Seely.
“She was a little spitfire, opinionated team player!” she continued. “Rest in peace, Jeannie.”
Trisha Yearwood
In her remembrance post, Yearwood shared photos of herself and Seely, along with some newer superstars like Lainey Wilson.
She expressed gratitude for their friendship, and emphasized how lucky everyone in Seely’s orbit was to know her.
“She was a talented, smart trailblazer for all women,” Yearwood reflected. “She knew who she was and what she stood for. She was a friend to everyone who stepped onto the Opry stage.”
“I can’t explain how much I already miss her,” she added. “I love you, Jeannie Seely.”
An Incredible Country Music Legacy
Seely’s breakthrough in country music came in the mid-1960s, and she released several hits, including “Don’t Touch Me,” “It’s Only Love,” “Can I Sleep in Your Arms” and more.
She became a Grand Ole Opry member in 1967 and went on to be one of the hallowed stage’s brightest lights.
Seely’s final Opry show took place on Feb. 22, 2025, marking her 5,397th time playing the venue. She played the Grand Ole Opry more times than any other artist in the venue’s history.
Saturday night’s (Aug. 2) Grand Ole Opry show was dedicated to her memory.
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Gallery Credit: Sterling Whitaker