Amy Arnaz may not have been a Hollywood actress, but she played an unforgettable role in the life of Desi Arnaz Jr. and the community she served. Best known as a talented dance instructor, arts advocate, and the wife of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz’s son, Amy touched thousands of lives through her passion for dance and education.
More than a decade after her passing, people continue to search for answers about what happened to Amy Arnaz, her cause of death, and the legacy she left behind. Her story is one of love, resilience, and dedication to the arts.
Amy Arnaz at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Amy Laura Bargiel Arnaz |
| Born | September 12, 1951 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Died | January 23, 2015 |
| Age at Death | 63 |
| Husband | Desi Arnaz Jr. |
| Daughter | Haley Arnaz |
| Profession | Dance Teacher, Choreographer, Arts Advocate |
| Known For | Founder of Dance Etc. and Boulder City Ballet Company |
Who Was Amy Arnaz?
Amy Arnaz was an accomplished dance educator and community leader who dedicated her life to teaching ballet, jazz, and performing arts. Long before marrying Desi Arnaz Jr. in 1987, she had already established herself as a respected instructor in Nevada.
She founded Dance Etc. and later the Boulder City Ballet Company, where she inspired generations of young dancers. Beyond dance, Amy and Desi shared a passion for preserving the arts, including helping restore the historic Boulder Theatre in Nevada.
Marriage to Desi Arnaz Jr.
Amy met Desi Arnaz Jr. through their shared interest in the arts. The couple married on October 8, 1987, and remained together until her death.
Although Desi grew up in one of television’s most famous families, Amy preferred a quieter life focused on family, dance, and community service. Friends often described their marriage as loving and supportive, and Desi adopted Amy’s daughter, Haley Arnaz, whom he helped raise as his own.
What Happened to Amy Arnaz?
In 2015, Amy Arnaz passed away at the age of 63 after battling a brain tumor. She died peacefully on January 23, 2015, surrounded by family in Boulder City, Nevada. Her passing was deeply felt by her loved ones, students, and the local arts community she had spent decades serving.
Amy Arnaz Death Timeline
| Year | Event |
| 1951 | Born in Chicago, Illinois |
| 1979 | Moved to Boulder City, Nevada |
| 1987 | Married Desi Arnaz Jr. |
| 1980s–2010s | Founded Dance Etc. and Boulder City Ballet Company |
| 2015 | Passed away on January 23 after a brain tumor diagnosis |
| 2024–2025 | Fans continued leaving tributes on her online memorial pages in remembrance of her life. |
FAQs
Who was Amy Arnaz?
Amy Arnaz was a dance teacher, choreographer, and the wife of Desi Arnaz Jr. She founded Dance Etc. and the Boulder City Ballet Company.
What happened to Amy Arnaz?
Amy Arnaz passed away on January 23, 2015, after battling a brain tumor. She was 63 years old.
What was Amy Arnaz’s cause of death?
According to published obituaries and family reports, Amy Arnaz died following complications related to a brain tumor.
Did Amy Arnaz have children?
Yes. She had a daughter, Haley Arnaz, whom Desi Arnaz Jr. later adopted.
When did Amy Arnaz marry Desi Arnaz Jr.?
The couple married on October 8, 1987, and remained together until Amy died in 2015.