Celebrating the Life and Legacy of a Legendary Country Music Icon at 85

Jeannie Seely, the beloved country music icon, has passed away at the age of 85. She died at Summit Medical Center in Hermitage, Tennessee, due to complications from an intestinal infection, her representative confirmed. Seely had faced significant health challenges throughout 2025. Earlier this year, she underwent multiple back surgeries to repair her vertebrae, followed by two emergency abdominal procedures.

She also spent 11 days in the ICU and battled pneumonia during her recovery. Her passing comes just months after the loss of her husband, Eugene Ward, who died of cancer. Born and raised in the United States, Jeannie Seely was celebrated for her powerful voice, timeless hits, and contributions to country music over several decades.

Her career included chart-topping singles and numerous awards, making her one of the most respected and influential figures in the genre. Fans, fellow musicians, and the country music community are mourning her loss and remembering the joy, talent, and inspiration she brought to the stage and beyond.

Seely’s legacy lives on through her music, her influence on future artists, and the countless lives she touched during her remarkable career.