We've received a follow-up on the passing last week of former General Hospital star Shell Kepler.

The actress, who was best for her role as Nurse Amy Vining, passed away on February 1 after being admitted to the hospital at Oregon Health & Science University on the same day. Reportedly, the 49-year-old succumbed to renal failure, during which the kidney fails to function adequately.

"She was a sweet woman with a big heart. She couldn't have been lovelier to me and was very welcoming when I joined General Hospital," said former co-star Nancy Lee Grahn.

Kepler joined General Hospital in 1979, taking over her role from Cari Ann Warder, who portrayed the character in 1975. She starred on the drama for more than two decades.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.