Deemer, Mary Ellen Cranwell

Mary Ellen Cranwell Deemer, of Blacksburg, Va., died on Monday, February 8, 2010, at home with her family by her side. Mrs. Deemer was the daughter of the late James Edward and Mary Peters Cranwell, and was preceded in death by two brothers, Wesley Cranwell and James E. Cranwell Jr. Mary Ellen spent her childhood years in the mountains of Southwest Virginia in the town of Richlands. She often recalled these times as some of the happiest of her life. It was here that she developed much of the strength and determination which would carry her throughout her life. Mary Ellen was an ardent supporter and graduate of Mary Baldwin College. She served as National Chair of the Mary Baldwin Ham and Jam Cookbook which was published in 1977. She served on the Alumni board at James Madison University where her son was a student. She served as Chairman of the Executive Committee of American Health Care (Heritage Hall), one of the largest nursing homes in Virginia. After marrying William Deemer, Mary Ellen moved to Blacksburg, Va., a place she deeply loved and would call home for the rest of her life, raising her children and participating in many organizations and charities. Mary Ellen loved to travel and was a gifted artist. Her home was a reflection of her love of art and other cultures. Of all of the things which defined Mary Ellen, none was as important as her loyalty and devotion to her family. She was a constant source of strength for her husband, children, siblings, extended family and friends. Her love and matriarchal spirit will be deeply missed by many. Mary Ellen is survived by her husband, William Murray Deemer; her daughter, Brownie Elizabeth Cole and spouse, William P. Cole III; son, William Deemer Jr. and spouse, Catherine W. Deemer; beloved grandchildren, Elizabeth Stuart Cole and Mary Ellen Taylor Cole; and three brothers, William C. Cranwell, of Roanoke, Robert M. Cranwell and wife, Susie, of Blacksburg, and C. Richard Cranwell and wife, Elizabeth, of Vinton. Private services will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday evening, February 11, 2010, at McCoy Funeral Home, 150 Country Club Drive, SW, Blacksburg, Va.