Jeannie Seely passed away on Friday, August 1, at Summit Medical Center in Hermitage, Tennessee, “due to complications from an intestinal infection,” her representative confirmed to PEOPLE.
The country music legend had struggled with major health problems throughout 2025. Earlier in the year, she underwent several back surgeries “to repair her vertebrae,” followed by two emergency abdominal operations.
Her recovery was further complicated when she “spent 11 days in the ICU and battled pneumonia,” showing her resilience despite ongoing challenges.
Her passing comes only months after the loss of her husband, Eugene Ward, who “died of cancer last December,” marking another deep tragedy for those close to her.
Fans and fellow artists are mourning her as a cherished figure in country music whose strength and spirit endured until the end.