Grammy-winning singer Jeannie Seely dies at 85 due to complications of an intestinal infection

Grammy Award-winning singer Jeannie Seely, best known for her hit Don't Touch Me, passed away on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Summit Medical Center in Hermitage, Nashville, Tennessee. According to People, her publicist confirmed that she died due to complications from an intestinal infection, following a series of serious health challenges earlier this year.

In addition to being a celebrated country music singer, Jeannie was also an accomplished author and record producer. Fondly known as "Miss Country Soul," she enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over 60 years and was a beloved, long-time member of the Grand Ole Opry. Jeannie was widely recognized for blending traditional country with contemporary sounds, helping the genre evolve while staying true to its roots. She also played a pivotal role in mentoring and shaping the next generation of country artists.

Jeannie was 85 years old at the time of her death.

Jeannie Seely's health struggles explored

Earlier this year, Seely went through a hard time with her health. She went through multiple back surgeries, two emergency abdominal operations, an 11‑day ICU stay, and a bout of pneumonia earlier in the year. In May 2025, Seely released a heartfelt health update. During her rehab, as per reports by NBC Washington, she shared:

''Rehab is pretty tough, but each day is looking brighter and last night, I saw a light at the end of the tunnel. And it was neon, so I knew it was mine!. The unsinkable Seely is working her way back.''

Although Jeannie was going through health issues earlier this year, she still managed to perform at the Grand Ole Opry on February 22, 2025. That performance was her 5,397th appearance at the Opry, which is the highest number of performances by any artist in the Opry's 100-year history.

Being a songwriter, she wrote songs for country legends like Merle Haggard, Dottie West, and Faron Young. In the Country music industry, she was called the trailblazer, being the first woman to host a segment of the Grand Ole Opry. Over her over six-decade career, she sang songs, recorded music, performed live, and hosted a SiriusXM radio show.

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Some of Jeannie's most famous and beloved songs include Can I Sleep in Your Arms, the song reached the Top 10 on the Billboard country charts, A Wanderin’ Man, It’s Only Love, Welcome Home to Nothing, and I’ll Love You More (Than You’ll Need).

Seely was married twice; her first husband was Hank Cochran, and her second husband was Eugene “Gene” Ward, whom she married in 2010. Ward, however, died in December 2024, at age 92, following a battle with cancer. She is survived by extended family and friends, as well as her beloved cat Corrie.

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