Poor Ned just can't catch a break can he? After finally finding companionship and happiness, Ned and Edna's blissful life was cut tragically short after only three or so seasons when Edna's voice actress, Marcia Wallace, died after a long illness. Rather than hire a new actress or switching the character to a background non-speaking role, the producers did the respectful thing and retired Edna's character. Edna and Wallace's death, and Ned becoming a widower again struck a more meaningful and emotional chord with fans than Maude's death as Edna was a far better character than Maude ever was and fans were directly responsible for Ned and Edna being together. On the show, Edna's death meant that Ned had to go through the pain of his wife dying all over again whilst the rest of Springfield (and the writers) had to adjust to a show that was missing one of it's greatest and most interesting supporting characters. Keep a chin up Neddy! Third time's the charm and you'll find some happiness soon (hopefully).