She was told she only had a couple of months to live in early 2013, and hung on for nearly seven more years. Ironically, both she and Mary passed very shortly after their respective 80th birthdays. Valerie was a fighter and survivor, and an inspiration. Thank goodness her work as Rhoda and beyond is around for us to always enjoy. Ed Asner said it best: "Goodnight beautiful". Rest in peace. ❤