Classic rock fans were saddened last year to learn that Fleetwood Mac founding member Christine McVie passed away at the age of 79. This week, her cause of death was revealed. 

According to Fox News, McVie died of an "ischemic stroke" while a "metastatic malignancy of unknown primary origin" was found to be a secondary cause.

McVie regarded as a "creative force"

Fox News noted that McVie was regarded as being "the creative force behind some of Fleetwood Mac's biggest hits," with examples including "Everywhere," "Little Lies," "Say You Love Me," "Songbird" and "Don't Stop."

The musician's passing was announced this past fall via an Instagram post that read, "On behalf of Christine McVie’s family, it is with a heavy heart we are informing you of Christine’s death."

"She passed away peacefully at hospital this morning, Wednesday, November 30th 2022, following a short illness," the post continued.

"She was in the company of her family. We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally. RIP Christine McVie," it added.

Musician's family "lucky to have a life with her"

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— Stevie Nicks (@StevieNicks) November 30, 2022

"A few hours ago I was told that my best friend in the whole world since the first day of 1975, had passed away," Nicks wrote. "I didn’t even know she was ill… until late Saturday night."

"I wanted to get to London but we were told to wait. So, since Saturday, one song has been swirling around in my head, over and over and over," Nicks explained.

"I thought I might possibly get to sing it to her, and so, I’m singing it to her now. I always knew I would need these words one day (written by the Ladies Haim). It’s all I can do now…"