I’m not very knowledgeable about azaleas. The ornamental ones I had died

BUT the native azaleas in my neglected Native Plants Shade Garden are ones of the last plants still standing after some serious drought and loss of shade due to overhead plum tree losing a major limb due to turbulent weather.
Now, basics about azaleas I do know are
- They like loamy organic soil on acid side
- They like constantly moist but well drained soil (plenty of acidic mulch would help)
- They prefer morning sun with afternoon shade
Another factor that holds true for most newly planted shrubs and trees is you need to water deeply and regularly — don’t wait until dry.
… Could any of the above have played a part in issues your azalea might be having?