The world of country music mourns the passing of Jeannie Seely, a true Nashville icon and Grammy-winning artist, who left an indelible mark on the genre and the hallowed stage of the Grand Ole Opry. Her distinctive voice and trailblazing spirit cemented her status as a revered music legend.

Seely, 85, passed away on Friday at Summit Medical Center in Hermitage, Tennessee. Her representative confirmed that complications from an intestinal infection, stemming from two emergency abdominal surgeries and other health challenges earlier this year, were the cause of her death.

Tributes have poured in from across the music industry, reflecting the profound impact Seely had on her peers and fans. Duane Allen of The Oak Ridge Boys shared a poignant statement, expressing his sorrow and highlighting her lasting contribution to country music and the Grand Ole Opry, remembering her as a cherished friend.

Born on July 6, 1940, in Titusville, Pennsylvania, Jeannie Seely rose to prominence with her breakout 1966 single ‘Don’t Touch Me’. Penned by the legendary Hank Cochran, the song not only became a massive hit but also earned Seely a prestigious Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, solidifying her place as a force in the genre.

A true pioneer, Seely broke new ground by becoming the first woman to regularly host and emcee segments at the Grand Ole Opry, a testament to her commanding stage presence and undeniable talent. Her induction into the storied institution in 1967 further underscored her significance, and she famously challenged norms by performing on the Opry stage in a mini-skirt, showcasing her bold and independent spirit.

Beyond her signature hit, Jeannie Seely achieved remarkable chart success, with over two dozen singles making their mark on the Billboard country charts. Notable tracks include ‘Can I Sleep in Your Arms’ and ‘Lucky Ladies’, alongside popular duets like ‘Wish I Didn’t Have to Miss You’ with her long-time music partner, Jack Greene, throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

Seely’s artistic endeavors extended beyond music into the realms of film and theater. She appeared as herself in the 1980 romantic western drama “Honeysuckle Rose” and showcased her acting versatility alongside stars like Faye Dunaway and Tom Skerritt in the 2002 film “Changing Hearts.” Her stage credits included musicals such as “Could It Be Love” and “Calamity Jane,” as well as a 2005 Nashville production of “The Vagina Monologues.”

Even in her final years, the Grammy winner remained an active and cherished presence in country music. In 2018, she launched her popular ‘Sundays with Seely’ segment on Willie Nelson’s SiriusXM radio series, continuing to connect with her audience and share her love for the genre, proving her enduring passion for her craft.

Jeannie Seely was preceded in death by her beloved husband Gene Ward, her parents Leo and Irene Seely, and her siblings Donald, Bernard, and Mary Lou. She is survived by a wide circle of devoted friends, loving family members, and her cherished cat, Corrie, whose lives were all touched by her remarkable warmth and spirit.