News of the country singer’s death was shared on Friday, August 1, and it was reported that Seely died after complications from an intestinal infection.
Seely spent much of 2025 battling health issues, and her husband, Eugene Ward, died in December 2024 after battling cancer.
Seely and Parton’s paths crossed in Nashville when Parton replaced Seely on The Porter Wagoner Show when the country singer known as “Miss Country Soul” went on tour after “Don’t Touch Me” became a breakout hit. They also appeared together on the Grand Ole Opry and Seely’s vocals were featured on Parton’s 2005 album,Those Were The Days.
Parton shared a simple note on Instagram with a black background and white font that read, “I have known Jeannie Seely since we were early on in Nashville. She was one of my dearest friends. I think she was one of the greater singers in Nashville and she had a wonderful sense of humor. We had many wonderful laughs together, cried over certain things together and she will be missed.”
The message was signed “Dolly” with a butterfly at the end of her name.
Parton’s fans were quick to offer their condolences, with one writing, “Sorry for your loss. What a nice post to remember her by.”
Another commented, “Rest in peace Jeannie, I’m so sorry for your loss dolly 💖.”
A third shared, “Rough year, Dolly. We all love you.”
Yet another suggested, “Amazing that you two got together! ❤️🔥 I’m sure y’all will cook up some big trouble in the next one.”
