Maryellen Risser Cranston, 63, of Ashfield, Massachusetts, formerly of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, died May 27, 2024. She was the daughter of the late Jay M. and Lois Anne (Carter) Risser. Maryellen graduated in 1979 from Lampeter-Strasburg High School, and in 1983 from Pennsylvania State University receiving her degree in Foreign Service and International Politics. She worked for Bank of Lancaster County coordinating the Grand Plan Program, and as a local tour guide. Maryellen moved to Ashfield, Massachusetts and was married to Seth Cranston for 21 years. After moving to Ashfield, she worked in various positions for the Town of Ashfield and the Town of Whately before retiring to battle Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a neurodegenerative disease similar to Parkinson's. Maryellen was an encouragement and support to many who were fighting these diseases, and was described as a light to those that she met. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sister Carol Fahnestock (Dennis), her brother, J. Ronald (Betti), a niece and nephews.

A family celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to CRUSH PD Fitness (Parkinson's Fitness Gym where her brother-in-law Dennis attends), 101 Mougins Circle, Kennett Square, PA 19348 and The Brain Support Network, P.O. Box 7264, Menlo Park, CA 94026 where Maryellen donated her brain to research to find a cure for PSP. Arrangements entrusted to Murray A. Miller.