“The Simpsons” paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Marcia Wallace who voice the character of school teacher Edna Krabappel. During the usual “chalkboard” gag at the opening of the November 3 episode, Bart Simpson wrote one line on the board, “We’ll really miss you, Mrs. K,”. Wallace, who was also the receptionist Carol Kester on “The Bob Newhart Show,” passed away last week at the age of 70 of complications from pneumonia. “The Simpsons” executive producer Al Jean announced that Wallace’s character would be retired following her passing.

Marcia Wallace who voice the character of school teacher Edna Krabappel

Marcia Wallace voiced the character of school teacher Edna Krabappel

Earlier reports this month suggested that a Simpsons character will pass away.

Jean said regarding Wallace’s character:

 “Earlier we had discussed a potential storyline in which a character passed away. This was not Marcia’s Edna Krabappel,”

“Marcia’s passing is unrelated and again, a terrible loss for all who had the pleasure of knowing her.”

"We'll really miss you Mrs.K"

“We’ll really miss you Mrs.K” – Picture courtesy of bbc.co.uk

Jean also said in a statement last month:

“I was tremendously saddened to learn this morning of the passing of the brilliant and gracious Marcia Wallace. She was beloved by all at The Simpsons and we intend to retire her irreplaceable character.”

Wallace won an Emmy in 1992 for her work on the long-running animated show.