How did ethel mertz die who played with Lucille Ball?

Ethel Mertz, the character played by Vivian Vance in the iconic sitcom "I Love Lucy," did not die.

Vivian Vance, the actress who played Ethel, passed away in 1979 at the age of 70. She had a long and successful career in television and film, but will forever be remembered for her role as Ethel Mertz, Lucy's best friend and partner in crime.