Amy Arnaz: Life, Legacy & Desi Arnaz Jr. - In Memory & Beyond
What is the measure of a life lived fully, especially when intertwined with the dazzling world of Hollywood and the enduring legacy of the arts? Amy Arnaz's life, a tapestry woven with the threads of dance, love, and spiritual exploration, offers a compelling answer.
Amy Laura Bargiel, known to the world as Amy Arnaz, possessed a spirit that resonated with the grace of ballet and the vibrancy of life. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 12, 1951, she embarked on a journey that would lead her from the dance studios to the heart of a celebrated family. Her story is not just one of a celebrity spouse, but of a woman who carved her own path, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew her and on the community she embraced.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Amy Laura Bargiel (Known as Amy Arnaz) |
| Born | September 12, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Died | January 23, 2015, in Boulder City, Nevada, USA, due to brain cancer |
| Known For | Ballet dancer, instructor, author, animal activist, and wife of Desi Arnaz Jr. |
| Marriage | Married Desi Arnaz Jr. on October 8, 1987 |
| Education/Training | Trained with Christina Carson and studied with Sonja Arova. Taught ballet at the University of Nevada. |
| Community Involvement | Active in animal rescue and a well-loved dance instructor in Boulder City. |
| Legacy | Remembered as a loving wife, mother, friend to all, and an extraordinary dance instructor. |
| Family | Daughter, Haley Arnaz, from a previous relationship. |
| Reference | Getty Images |
Her life's narrative is further enriched by her marriage to Desi Arnaz Jr., the son of the legendary Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, the iconic duo who defined a generation of entertainment. Their union, which began on October 8, 1987, brought together two worlds, one steeped in the glamour of Hollywood, and the other rooted in Amy's passion for the arts and her spiritual pursuits. Their connection was not merely a joining of families; it was a testament to a shared love that spanned nearly three decades, until Amy's untimely passing on January 23, 2015, in Boulder City, Nevada, due to brain cancer. Her departure left a void, not only for her family but also for the community she embraced.
Amy's professional life was marked by her dedication to dance. She wasn't merely a dancer; she was a ballet instructor, shaping the talents of aspiring artists. She trained with renowned figures such as Christina Carson and studied under Sonja Arova, honing her skills to impart knowledge at the University of Nevada. Her commitment to dance extended beyond the classroom; it was a part of her essence. Her students affectionately knew her as "Miss Amy," a testament to her approachable demeanor and genuine passion. Her impact on the Boulder City ballet scene was significant, inspiring and uplifting those she taught.
The purchase and restoration of the Boulder Theatre in 1997, a cinema on the brink of ruin, further demonstrates Amys dedication to the arts and the community. This action provided a home for the Boulder City Ballet Company. She supported her husband, Desi Arnaz Jr., in various endeavors, including the purchase and restoration of the Boulder Theatre, which became a hub for artistic expression. Her dedication was recognized in various ways, including a memorial service held in Boulder City, where pink balloons were released into the sky, a symbol of the love and respect the community held for her.
Beyond her professional and marital life, Amy was an animal activist, adding another layer to her compassionate personality. Her concern for animal welfare was another aspect of her character, showcasing a holistic view of life where care extended beyond humans.
Amy's story can be seen in the broader context of her relationship with Desi Arnaz Jr. Desi, the son of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, has largely kept out of the spotlight since Amys death, but before their marriage, they dated for three years. Their relationship began after meeting at a lecture by the spiritual author, Vernon Howard. This connection, based on shared interests and values, led to a 28-year marriage, a period marked by partnership and mutual support. Together, they formed a family, which included Haley Arnaz, Amy's daughter from a previous relationship.
The lives of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, the parents of Desi Jr., have also found renewed interest in the media, with projects revisiting their groundbreaking careers and tumultuous personal lives. Lucy and Desi, a documentary, revisits the incredible story of Hollywoods original power couple. Before Amy Poehler directed a new documentary, and even before the rise of documentaries and biographies focusing on their lives, the couples innovative approach to television, including their portrayal of an interracial relationship on "I Love Lucy," broke boundaries and paved the way for future generations of artists. Amy's story is intertwined with theirs, representing the enduring legacy of the entertainment world, and a life that spanned art, family, and an unwavering spirit.
The impact of Amy Arnaz transcends her role as a celebrity spouse. She was a woman who cultivated her own passions and convictions, enriching the lives of those around her. Her life in Boulder City became a testament to the importance of community, artistic expression, and a life of purpose, marked by her work with the Boulder City Ballet Company, her animal activism, and the restoration of the historic Boulder Theatre. She embodied a blend of talent, love, and a deep-seated commitment to making a positive impact, and through this, her legacy lives on.
Amys influence continues to resonate, and is a reminder of how one life can intertwine with art, love, and community. The outpouring of love and tributes following her passing proves that her life was well-lived. Those who knew her still remember her with love, the grace of her dance, and her commitment to a life of meaning. This is a true testament to the lasting impact of Amy Arnaz.
