Friends and colleagues described Mahaffey as “naturally kind-hearted” and a woman who “exuded a warm and infectious energy.” Support systems during palliative care often include mental health counseling, grief wellness services, and long-term care insurance options, especially when facing end-of-life decisions at a medical center.
Fans also shared heartfelt tributes across social media, praising her ability to bring memorable nuance to every role.
“No matter the episode count or number of lines she would have, Valerie Mahaffey made an impression,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“She was always JUST right no matter what she was working in,” said another.
“When her name came up on the screen, my heart jumped with delight,” added a third.
“She was in EVERYTHING! And no one did soft spoken, passive aggressive viciousness better! So sad to hear she’s passed and only 71. RIP,” one fan wrote on X.
