Remembering Jeannie Seely — A SOURCE Sister, Trailblazer, and Country Music Legend

It is with heavy hearts that we honor the passing of Grand Ole Opry star and country music icon Jeannie Seely, who died peacefully on August 1, 2025, at the age of 85.

A trailblazer for women in the music industry, Jeannie was not only a history-making artist with more Grand Ole Opry performances than any other artist in its 100-year history, but also a vital figure in the SOURCE community. In 2024, SOURCE proudly presented Jeannie with the Jo Walker-Meador Lifetime Achievement Award — a fitting tribute to a woman whose seven-decade career exemplified perseverance, innovation, and generosity of spirit.

Jeannie’s contributions to country music were nothing short of extraordinary. From her Grammy-winning hit “Don’t Touch Me” to her groundbreaking presence on the Opry stage, she consistently broke barriers for female performers. She was the first woman to regularly host Opry segments, the first to wear a mini-skirt on the Opry stage, and an early advocate for women in country music — both on stage and behind the scenes.

Her influence extended well beyond performance. She was a BMI-awarded songwriter whose songs were recorded by legends like Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, and Dottie West. She remained active until her final months, producing bluegrass records, appearing on SiriusXM’s Sundays with Seely, and even setting a new record for the longest span between recording sessions at RCA Studio B — 60 years.

SOURCE was lucky to count Jeannie among its members. Her unwavering support of women in music, her willingness to mentor and uplift others, and her joyful presence at SOURCE events left a lasting impact on our community. She was a woman of grace, grit, and generosity — and we will forever be inspired by her example.

Jeannie Seely’s light touched so many. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her legacy will continue to guide and encourage us. We send our love to her many friends, fans, and family — and her beloved cat Corrie.

“Jeannie Seely was an integral part of the SOURCE Hall of Fame Awards — not only as our beloved host, but as someone who brought heart, humor, and history to every moment she shared with us. Her presence elevated the event and made it truly special for everyone in the room. We have lost an amazing woman, a champion for women in music, and a dear friend. Her legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of SOURCE.”

— Kay Smith, SOURCE Hall of Fame Awards Founder

A memorial service will be announced in the coming days. The Grand Ole Opry will dedicate tomorrow night’s performance to her memory.

Rest in peace, Jeannie — Miss Country Soul, SOURCE Sister, and forever legend.