Chrystal Rose O'Brien

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Chrystal Rose O’Brien (Meyers) on January 31, 2026.

Chrystal was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, to Robert and Alice Meyers. She resided in Otis, MA, before meeting her husband of 42 years, Kenneth Robert O’Brien, who predeceased her. Once married, Chrystal resided in Sandisfield, MA until her mid-50s, later moving to Great Barrington, MA.

Chrystal began her career as a secretary at Mead Paper in Lee, MA. She then devoted many years to being a stay-at-home mother to her two children, during which time she also provided daycare services to local families. Once her children entered school, Chrystal returned to the workforce and eventually retired as a paraprofessional at Monument Mountain Regional High School.

Chrystal was deeply involved in her children’s lives. She facilitated school events, served as a Girl Scout troop leader, and assisted with the Boy Scouts. She could always be found cheering her children on—whether at volleyball games, races, or ski events. Above all, she was a devoted and loving mother.

Chrystal enjoyed gardening, spending time with friends, attending concerts, and shopping. Her Sandisfield home was well known for its beautiful perennial gardens and festive holiday decorations, both inside and out. She was an avid baker and crafter and, in later years, served as secretary for O’Brien and Son. She enjoyed country music, playing cards, and trips to Ward’s Nursery. Before losing her sister Carolyn to cancer, Chrystal treasured traveling with her sister and children, and she especially enjoyed traveling with her daughter, Michelle.

Chrystal remained a loyal and dedicated mother to her two children prior to her devastating diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. In her more recent years, she found great joy in visits with her children and grandchildren.

Chrystal is survived by her son, Gary J. O’Brien and his wife Kristen; her daughter, Michelle M. O’Brien-Ransom; her grandchildren McKenna and McKenize O’Brien, Colin and Victoria Ransom, and Anastaysia Brockmann; and her step-grandson, Dylan Tyer.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, February 5, at 11:30 a.m. at Sandisfield Center Cemetery on Route 57 in Sandisfield, MA. A Celebration of Life will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Knox Trail Inn, 1898 East Otis Road, Otis, MA.

Chrystal’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Fairview Commons and HospiceCare in The Berkshires for their compassionate care.