How did the death of Fanny Mendelssohn affect Felix Mendelssohn?

The death of Fanny Mendelssohn in May 1847 had a profound and devastating impact on her brother, Felix Mendelssohn. Because the two shared deep musical and emotional ties—with Fanny serving as his closest confidante and a powerful influence on his inner musical nature—her passing deeply undermined his well-being.12

Following her death, Felix’s energy deserted him, and his health rapidly declined. He suffered the rupture of a blood vessel and died only six months later, in November 1847.12