That's very sad for your friend. It really sucks how often that is the case for people as they get older. It's not highly surprising, but of course that doesn't make it any easier or less sad.

Oh dear. You know, this is something that isn't often talked about regarding getting old, seeing your friends pass on as you age, especially when you get to be her age. I guess it's something I've come to better accept with having older parents and several classmates that have already passed even though I'm still quite young. Several of my newspaper subscribers tell me the main reason they still subscribe and request holds while they are out of town is for the obituaries. Don't feel bad about it, OP. Of course, feel your sympathy for her, but don't think your desire to help just brought her upset. If she's elderly there's a strong likelihood she already expected that her friend had passed.