Jeannie Seely Remembered by Oak Ridge Boys in Touching Tribute

Bringing a great deal of soul to country music, Jeannie Seely gained an unusual title when considered “Miss Country Soul.” Although the nickname followed her throughout her six decades in country music, Seely explored more than the genre as she appeared in the film Honeysuckle Rose. Still, never straying too far from her roots, Seely performed at the Grand Ole Opry over 5,000 times. Sadly, on August 1st, country music lost yet another icon when she passed away at 85. And never forgetting her sound, career, and friendship, the Oak Ridge Boys honored her legacy with a touching tribute. 

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The last two years have brought the Oak Ridge Boys a great deal of pain as the group lost several friends. Back in 2024, member Duane Allen lost his wife, Norah Lee, after spending over five decades together. Just a few months later, the band lost Joe Bonsall due to his struggles with ALS. 

Although the Oak Ridge Boys went through several lineup changes, Allen spent years performing with William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban, and Bonsall. Creating lasting friendships with each of them, Allen found himself alone. Posting a message on the band’s Facebook page, he wrote, “The last date I had with my Norah Lee was with Jeannie Seely & Gene Ward. A double date with best friends. They are all gone but me … My heart is broken tonight. I loved her.”

[RELATED: Oak Ridge Boys Honor Legacy of Joe Bonsall on the Anniversary of His Death]

Jeannie Seely’s Cause Of Death Revealed

Allen wasn’t the only one mourning Seely as fans shared their memories of the singer in the comments. “She should be in the Hall of Fame. She just gained the greatest gift of all, though. Condolences to you and all whom love her.” The comments continued to offer support to Allen. “Oh Duane Allen my heart goes out to you. We are losing all of the great ones. Glad you had some good times together here. Keep those memories with you always!”

As for Seely, she also dealt with loss after her husband Gene Ward passed away in December 2024. The couple spent over 14 years together, marrying in 2010. That same year, the Grand Ole Opry legend underwent several surgeries for her back. According to reports, Seely passed away due to an intestinal infection. 

While Seely passed away just a few days ago, her legacy in country music and the Grand Ole Opry will never dim.

(Photo by Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall Of Fame)