Obituary of Valerie Lynn Diaz

With strength, bravery and firm faith, Valerie Lynn Diaz (Leggitt) passed away peacefully in the presence of loved ones in the morning on Thursday January 15, 2026.

Valerie was naturally inquisitive, compassionate, generous and had a great sense of humour. Although she was most comfortable at home she loved being with people. She was ready to help when needed and made space in her life and home for many, “adopting” some as her own. She loved all of her family, friends, church family and God.

Many years ago, Valerie and Carlos opened their home, as a “Home for Special Care”, to house and take care of adults with mental illness and brain injury. She often talked of the many adventures and of late reflected on the experience and people with heartfelt honour and understanding.

She loved animals of all sorts, keeping or temporarily caring for cats, dogs, birds, a pig, a raccoon, to name a few. She raised Lhasa Apsos for the show ring, winning several ribbons.  She had many hobbies and interests throughout her life; sewing, crocheting, ceramic painting, journaling, quilting, holiday crafts, baking, plants and scrap booking.   

Valerie had a way of expanding her “family” through her love, kindness and acceptance of people into her life and home. She was at her happiest sitting around in deep meaningful conversation with people or being a spectator at family events.

She has many family members that she leaves behind who will miss her dearly; biological, in-laws, and those she claimed as her own, some near some far. She is survived by her sons Chris and Shawn, her daughters-in-law, Jennifer and Jessica and her grandchildren Britni, Logan, Amelia, Sophia, Elijah, Charlie and Sam. We love you Nana Banana!

Valerie wanted to have her life celebrated with her church family “Impact Church”, this celebration will be held at Bayridge Alliance Church, 825 Gardiners Road, Wednesday February 4^th at 11:00am with a reception to follow. The internment of her ashes will be coordinated by family and take place in the spring.

For those who would like to make donations in her honour, her wish was that they be made to Impact Church.