Dr. Watson's first wife, Mary Morstan, died due to an illness that was not specified in the original Sherlock Holmes stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. However, in some adaptations and spin-offs of the original stories, it is suggested that Mary may have died from a long-term illness or complications from childbirth.

One popular theory is that Mary died from tuberculosis, a common and deadly disease during the late 19th century when the Sherlock Holmes stories were set. Tuberculosis, also known as consumption, was a leading cause of death at the time and could have easily taken the life of a young woman like Mary Morstan.

Another possibility is that Mary died during childbirth or from complications related to pregnancy. This theory is supported by the fact that Mary and Dr. Watson were married for a relatively short period of time before her death, suggesting that she may have died during or shortly after giving birth to their child.

Regardless of the exact cause of Mary Morstan's death, her passing had a profound impact on Dr. Watson and is often referenced in adaptations of the Sherlock Holmes stories as a key event that shaped his character and his relationship with Holmes.

In conclusion, while the original Sherlock Holmes stories do not provide a definitive answer to how Dr. Watson's first wife died, various adaptations and interpretations suggest that she may have died from an illness such as tuberculosis or complications related to childbirth. The mystery surrounding Mary Morstan's death adds depth to the character of Dr. Watson and highlights the emotional toll that his work as a detective has taken on his personal life.

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