Sad news. I remember her vividly from Maude (what a ground-breaking show) and Golden Girls, but she also had a good Broadway career.
I've got the CD of her show "Bea Arthur on Broadway - Just Between Friends" where she recounts her career, tells amusing stories, and sings some (mostly) fun songs. It's a delight.
Coach Bob knew it all along: you've got to get obsessed and stay obsessed. You have to keep passing the open windows. (John Irving, The Hotel New Hampshire)