HONOR SUPPORT EDUCATE INSPIRE
Meet Our Team
“Our mission is fueled by people who believe in giving back to those who serve — meet the team making it happen.”
Cyd Deathe
Executive Director
Cyd Deathe is the founder and Executive Director of Marine Families. When her son enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2003, Cyd recognized the need for a community where parents and families could come together for support, resources, and connection. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into more than 20 years of dedicated service to military members, veterans, and their families, with a special focus on the Marine Corps.
Under her leadership, Marine Families has led thousands of impactful projects, programs, and events designed to honor, support, educate, and inspire. Highlights include contributing to the publishing and distribution of the Wounded Warrior Handbook (over 500 free copies given to combat wounded), collaborating on the PBS-aired film While Time Stands Still, and establishing remembrance and community projects such as Wreaths Across America in Tampa, the Run for the Fallen/Tampa Bay (drawing more than 30,000 participants over ten years), and the Yellow Ribbon Project, which has provided nearly 5,000 personalized deployment ribbons to military families across all branches.
Cyd also spearheaded the creation of the Krewe of Semper Fi and its community float, “Frank the Tank,” bringing military and civilians together during Tampa’s annual parade season. Today, Marine Families’ ongoing work includes the “adoption” of the 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion in Tampa, where volunteers and leadership actively support Marines on a weekly basis.
Her efforts have helped Marine Families receive numerous accolades from organizations such as Toys for Tots, Operation Helping Hands, MARCENT/Central Command, and the Tampa Chamber of Commerce. She has also been recognized with the Hillsborough County Veterans Council “Keeping the Patriotic Spirit Alive” Award (twice) and the Ed Porterfield Award.
Beyond her nonprofit leadership, Cyd is the wife of an Army Vietnam combat veteran, a mother, and a grandmother. She attended Central Christian College in Kansas and recently retired after 18 years as registrar at Tampa Bay Technical High School. Deeply devoted to God, family, and service, she also finds joy in raising Monarch butterflies — her personal way of contributing to the survival of a threatened species.
Sandy Broadstone
Asstistant Executive Director
Sandy serves as the Assistant Director of Marine Families, bringing both professional expertise and a personal passion for serving the military community. A proud Marine mom, her son now serves in the U.S. Secret Service.
Before joining Marine Families, Sandy enjoyed a distinguished 30-year career with USAA, retiring in 2021 after decades of loyal service to military members and their families. She first connected with Marine Families as a volunteer, and her commitment, reliability, and dedication quickly made it clear she belonged on the board.
Sandy is known for her tireless work ethic and her unwavering support in strengthening the mission of Marine Families. Beyond her role, she is a devoted wife, mother, and “Gigi,” cherishing time with her family while continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.