Country music singer Jeannie Seely passed away at the age of 85 on Friday, August 1, according to People via a statement from her representative. The singer reportedly had "complications from an intestinal infection."
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Seely had been dealing with serious medical problems for some time. In a statement to People earlier this year, she wrote, "Over the past several weeks, I've received so many wonderful messages of love and concern about being missed on the Grand Ole Opry and on Sundays with Seely on Willie's Roadhouse. Thank you for those, and I assure you that I miss you just as much! Hopefully I can count on that support as I struggle through this recovery process from multiple back surgeries in March, as well as two emergency abdominal surgeries in April, followed by eleven days in the intensive care unit and a bout with pneumonia."
She added, "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."
She Had a Distinguished Career in Country Music
Per ABC News, she was "[k]nown as 'Miss Country Soul' for her unique vocal style [and] Seely was a trailblazer for women in country music...." A native of Titusville, Pennsylvania, she developed an early affinity for music. She eventually sang on country star Porter Wagoner's popular TV show and landed a recording contract. Her big hit was "Don't Touch Me," which got Seely a Grammy. It was written by Hank Cochran, whom she married.
Her other successful songs included "Can I Sleep In Your Arms?" and "I'll Love You More (Than You Need)."
Per People, "Seely continued to appear at the Opry throughout her life. In 2022 she celebrated 55 years as a member — and over 5,200 appearances in the show, a record."
Seely Also Endured The Loss of Her Husband Late Last Year
Her husband, Eugene Ward, passed away eight months ago from cancer. He was 92. Seely issued a statement then mourning her loss. "My heart is broken now, but I am so grateful for the 15 years I had with Gene. I knew he was a good man when I married him, but as I experienced life with him, I learned he was a really great man. My love and respect for him grew daily, and it continues as I learn how much he touched the lives of so many people, some who only knew him by the example he set."
Ward was Seely's second husband. They tied the knot in 2010.
