Ella Fitzgerald struggled with diabetes throughout her later years, which led to a number of difficulties. Fitzgerald was briefly hospitalized in 1985 for breathing problems, in 1986 for congestive heart failure, and in 1990 for fatigue.
She appeared with the Count Basie Orchestra in the Royal Albert Hall in London, England, for the launch of Jazz FM in March 1990, as well as at a gala dinner at the Grosvenor House Hotel.
She had to have both of her legs amputated below the knee in 1993 as a result of diabetes symptoms. Her vision was affected as well.
What was Ella Fitzgerald’s cause of death?
On June 15, 1996, at the age of 79, she suffered a stroke and passed away in her home. The Hollywood Bowl hosted the Playboy Jazz Festival a few hours after she passed away.
“Ella We Will Miss You,” the marquee said in remembrance. She had a private funeral and was laid to rest in Inglewood Park Cemetery, California.
