With Jeannie Seely passing away at 85 years old, the country singer not only created a legacy with hits like “Lucky Ladies” but also at the Grand Ole Opry. For any singer looking to leave their mark in country music, there was no better way than at the Opry. Sacred ground for those who get the chance to take the stage, the Opry showcased countless icons over the decades. But the famed venue held a special place for Seely as she performed there more than any other artist. Thankful for her impact and legacy, the Opry announced it would host a public memorial for Seely.
On August 14th, at 11:00 a.m. ET, the Opry will celebrate Seely’s career with a special broadcast. While fans can listen to the show on 650 AM WSM, the venue also offered a livestream, available here.
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Throughout her career in country music, Seely appeared to find a permanent home at the Opry. And for those wondering how many times she performed there, the singer took the stage a staggering 5,397 times. Calling the memorial “Jeannie Seely’s 5,398th Opry Show”, it will sadly mark her last show. But while already missing her, the Opry hoped not to mourn her passing, but celebrate the singer who was considered “Miss Country Soul.”
[RELATED: Jeannie Seely Remembered by Oak Ridge Boys in Touching Tribute]
Details Surrounding Jeannie Seely’s Death
Taking a moment to remember Seely, the senior vice president of the Opry, Dan Rogers, promised that her record would “never be broken.” And outside of her performance, he explained how she was also the first woman to host segments of the Opry on a regular basis.
Having dedicated her entire career to the Opry, singer Bill Anderson remembered the time they spent together. “I hope that I live to remember those 23 years that she and I spent co-hosting Country’s Family Reunion on television.”
As for the details surrounding her death, the singer’s publicist revealed that Seely passed away on August 1st from complications created by an intestinal infection.
More than a performer, Jeannie Seely was part of the Opry’s soul – and on August 14th, the music community will sing her home.
(Photo by Taylor Hill/FilmMagic)