Country music legend Dolly Parton mourns the passing of her dear friend Jeannie Seely.
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Country music legend Jeannie Seely, affectionately known as "Miss Country Soul," has passed away at the age of 85. The news was confirmed on August 1, 2025, following complications from an intestinal infection.
Seely, a close friend of Dolly Parton, was a renowned American singer, songwriter, record producer, actress, and author. She was best known for her Grammy Award-winning 1966 hit "Don't Touch Me," which earned her the nickname "Miss Country Soul" due to her soul-inspired vocal style.
Seely had a career spanning over five decades, with multiple top-10 and top-20 country hits. She holds the record for the most performances on the Grand Ole Opry, having appeared over 5,000 times, more than any other performer.
Dolly Parton, in an emotional note on Instagram Stories, described Jeannie Seely as one of her dearest friends. The two had known each other since early days in Nashville and shared many memorable moments, including numerous wonderful laughs and tears. Parton also highlighted Seely's extraordinary sense of humor and her status as one of the greater singers in Nashville.
In addition to her 1996 track Don't Touch Me, Seely was famously known for 1967's A Wanderin' Man and the 1968 song I'll Love You More (Than You'll Need).
Earlier this spring, Seely underwent multiple back surgeries for vertebrae repairs and two emergency abdominal surgeries. Despite these health challenges, her spirit and love for music remained undeterred.
Seely's contributions to country music as an influential artist and performer will be deeply missed. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike.
[1] AllMusic. (n.d.). Jeannie Seely. Retrieved August 1, 2025, from https://www.allmusic.com/artist/jeannie-seely-mn0000211962
[2] Billboard. (n.d.). Jeannie Seely. Retrieved August 1, 2025, from https://www.billboard.com/music/jeannie-seely/
[3] Grand Ole Opry. (n.d.). Jeannie Seely. Retrieved August 1, 2025, from https://www.opry.com/artist/jeannie-seely/
Entertainment news, shared on August 1, 2025, reported the passing of country music legend Jeannie Seely. As the revered "Miss Country Soul," Seely, a celebrated singer, songwriter, and author, made her mark in music, particularly with her Grammy Award-winning hit "Don't Touch Me." Her storied career also included hits like "A Wanderin' Man" and "I'll Love You More (Than You'll Need)," and she holds the record for the most performances on the Grand Ole Opry. Despite recent health challenges, her love for music remained unwavering, solidifying her status as an enduring icon in the entertainment world, celebrated by fellow musicians and fans alike.
