Will someone please offer some advice on this what appears to be dyeing shrub!!!

I would say it's time to rejuvenate your azeala, cut it back to the ground and see how it does in the spring.

My be a visit from a cat or such like.
I've had lots similar to yours over the years.
Yet others really close bursting with health,,,,'
I hate cats ( there I've said it)
Cheers john

No cats in the neighborhood however, I've smelled a slight odor of skunk at times. Would that be the culprit? I've kept all the shrubs in the area well-watered and fed throughout the season.

Be careful with the soil moisture. It has to be moist, not wet but not dry either, as excess soil moisture can cause root rot and then stem dieback. Vole damage can also cause root injuries that affect selected sections of the plant. Insert a finger at a depth of 4" and water if the soil feel dry or almost dry; skip watering if the soil feels wet.