Final Years
Handel died at the age of 74. It is more than a bit fortunate that his career was as long as it was considering his build (he was a rather portly man) and the health troubles that had plagued him ever since a stroke in 1737. His final works of note, Theodora and Jephtha, both demonstrate that his creativity had scarcely waned. Neither did his popularity decrease, but he became a much admired and respected citizen.
Throughout his last years blindness began more and more to afflict him, as did paralysis of the arm. Eventually he could no longer personally direct his musicians, though he could still dazzle audiences on the harpsichord and organ. And he still attended and oversaw the performances of his works, which were popular and profitable. Messiah in particular became a traditional favorite as it is now. It and the other oratorios were frequently performed for the benefit of charitable organizations.
April 14th 1759, early in the morning, George Frideric Handel died. He had requested the honor of burial in Westminster Abbey, and received it. He now lies alongside some of the most notable poets and musicians who have ever lived. Standing nearby is a statue showing a pensive Handel holding in his hand the score to the famous Messiah aria "I Know that My Redeemer Liveth."