Valerie Lee Shepard

It’s hard to believe we’re saying goodbye to Valerie Lee Shepard. Val, as everyone who knew and loved her called her, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, at the wonderful age of 94. She lived a life brimming with joy, laughter, and a quiet strength that touched so many of us. Most people know her as one of the beloved Munchkins from *The Wizard of Oz*, a role she landed as a young girl, and a piece of cinematic history she carried with such grace and good humor. I remember her telling stories about being on set, the camaraderie of the other little performers, and the sheer magic of being part of something so special. She always chuckled about the blue outfits – “Blue was *the* color, darling! We all looked like little blueberries!” But Val was so much more than a Munchkin. She was a devoted daughter, a cherished sister, and a fiercely loyal friend. She adored her family, always the first to offer a listening ear, a warm hug, or a plate of her famous apple pie. She had a mischievous twinkle in her eye and a quick wit that could disarm anyone. I’ll never forget the time she convinced me to try a ridiculously spicy chili, just to see my reaction – and then proceeded to laugh for a good ten minutes! She loved gardening, filling her backyard with vibrant flowers and herbs, and she was an avid reader, always losing herself in a good book. Later in life, she took up painting, and her landscapes, though amateur, were filled with the same warmth and beauty she brought to everything she did. Valerie had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. She was a constant source of encouragement, always believing in the best in people, even when they struggled to see it in themselves. She volunteered at the local library for years, sharing her love of stories with children and fostering a lifelong passion for reading. She never sought the spotlight, preferring to shine her light quietly, illuminating the lives of those around her. We’ll miss her terribly – her infectious laughter, her comforting presence, and her unwavering kindness. Valerie leaves behind a legacy of love, joy, and a reminder to embrace the simple pleasures in life. Though she may be gone, the magic she brought to the world, both on and off the screen, will live on forever. Rest in peace, dear Val. You were truly one of a kind.