Country Star Jeannie Seely Dies at 85

Grammy-winning country music legend Jeannie Seely, known as 'Miss Country Soul,' died at age 85 in Hermitage, Tennessee, due to complications from an intestinal infection. Seely was a pioneering figure, becoming the first woman to host the Grand Ole Opry and performing there a record 5,397 times across her 57-year membership. Her 1966 hit 'Don't Touch Me' earned her a Grammy and helped launch a career marked by vocal prowess, fashion boldness, and advocacy for women in country music. She was the first woman to wear a miniskirt on the Opry stage, breaking traditional norms and inspiring future generations. Seely faced significant health challenges in recent years and lost her husband, Gene Ward, to cancer in December 2024. Tributes from the music community, including Opry dedications, underscore her enduring legacy as a trailblazer and mentor.