Country music icon Dolly Parton is grieving the loss of one of her lifelong friends and collaborators, Jeannie Seely, who passed away on August 1, 2025, at the age of 85. The two shared decades of friendship, music, and memories—and Dolly’s heartfelt tribute has touched fans around the world.
A Bond Forged in Nashville
Dolly and Jeannie’s friendship began in the early days of their careers in Nashville. Their connection only deepened over time, with Dolly eventually stepping in for Jeannie on The Porter Wagoner Show after the success of Seely’s 1966 hit “Don’t Touch Me.” They would go on to perform together at the Grand Ole Opry and collaborate on projects like Dolly’s 2005 album Those Were The Days, which featured Jeannie’s unmistakable vocals.
A Tearful Farewell
In a moving post shared to Instagram, Dolly called Jeannie her “dearest friend” and remembered the laughter, tears, and countless moments they had shared over the years.
“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,” Dolly wrote.
But it was what came next that truly broke hearts. As a final tribute, Dolly posted a rare, emotional video of herself performing “Jeannie’s Afraid of the Dark”—a classic song that took on deeper meaning in the wake of Jeannie’s passing. With her voice trembling with emotion, Dolly transformed the ballad into a soul-stirring goodbye, capturing the depth of their bond in every note.
Jeannie Seely’s Final Days
Jeannie passed away at Summit Medical Center in Hermitage, Tennessee, after battling complications from an intestinal infection. She had faced a difficult year health-wise, enduring multiple surgeries—including back and abdominal operations—and a serious bout of pneumonia that left her in intensive care for 11 days.
Despite her struggles, Jeannie remained optimistic. Just a few months ago, in May, she shared:
“Rehab is pretty tough, but each day is looking brighter and last night, I saw a light at the end of the tunnel. And it was neon, so I knew it was mine! The unsinkable Seely is working her way back.”
Sadly, Jeannie never fully recovered. She was also still grieving the loss of her husband, Eugene Ward, who died of cancer in December 2024.
A Year of Loss for Dolly
Jeannie’s death adds to what has already been a heartbreaking year for Dolly. Just months earlier, on March 3, 2025, her beloved husband of nearly 59 years, Carl Dean, passed away at the age of 82.
In a private family statement posted to Instagram, Dolly shared:
“Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy. The family asks for privacy during this difficult time.”
Carl had long stayed out of the spotlight, but was known to be Dolly’s rock and the inspiration behind some of her most beloved songs, including “Jolene” and “Forever Love.”
Fans Share Their Support
Fans poured into Dolly’s comment section with love and condolences.
“Oh Ms. Dolly, my heart is broken for you and all those who loved Jeannie so much. Sending you love and strength.”
“Such a beautiful tribute, she would be so proud.”
“So sorry for your loss, Dolly. May the Lord hold you and Jeannie’s family close during this time.”
A Farewell Etched in Song
Dolly’s tribute was more than just a memory—it was a moment of shared grief, music, and love. As her voice cracked through the final lines of “Jeannie’s Afraid of the Dark,” fans knew they were witnessing something rare: a legend mourning another, with nothing but truth in her voice.
▶️ Watch Dolly Parton’s emotional tribute to Jeannie Seely below — and feel the love behind every word.
