Marysandra Draude

With profound sadness, the family of Marysandra "Sandi" Draude announces her passing on March 15, 2025. Born on October 29, 1942, in Buffalo, New York, Sandi lived a life of service, love, and adventure. She was the cherished daughter of childhood sweethearts, her father being a dedicated member of the Army National Guard and later the U.S. Army, whose service took the family across the globe.

As an "Army brat," Sandi experienced a unique upbringing marked by travel to places like Japan and Germany, where she graduated from Heidelberg High School, forgoing her senior prom to attend a motorcar race. She graduated from Sophia University in Tokyo in 1964 and returned to the United States aboard a ship carrying service personnel and dependents. It was during this journey that she met Marine Corps First Lieutenant Thomas Draude, who was immediately captivated by her. Their love story became one of balance—his seriousness complemented by her joy and zest for life.

Sandi was not only a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother but also a proud veteran who served as a lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. After leaving the service, she and Tom started a family. She generously set aside personal aspirations to go where the Corps sent them, focus on her kids and fill their home with love, delicious foods, and unforgettable holidays.

While pregnant with her third child, she earned a master’s degree from Boston University. She taught high school intermittently as she raised her family in California, Hawaii and Virginia, retiring in 1993. She was recognized for her dedication to and her mentoring of her students. Her passion for education extended beyond formal classrooms; she was a constant source of wisdom and encouragement to those around her.

Later in life, Sandi continued her legacy of service as a volunteer at St. Joseph's Hospital North, accumulating over 1,000 hours of service. She was a loyal friend, a compassionate listener, and a trusted advisor to many. Her warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Sandi’s family takes comfort in their faith, believing they will one day reunite with her. While her absence leaves an unfathomable void, they celebrate her extraordinary life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. The family deeply mourns their loss but finds solace in the words: "Grief is the price we pay for love." Sandi was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

She is survived by her husband, Thomas, her three children, Loree Draude, Patrick (Kristin) Draude, Ryan (Despina) Draude and her four grandchildren, Samuel Hirschman, Julia Hirschman, Priya Draude and Leena Draude.

Sandi’s funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Mary Catholic Church in Tampa, FL at 1pm on Monday, March 31, 2025.

Military honors will be held later this year or early 2026 at Arlington National Cemetery.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, 15520 N Blvd, Tampa, FL 33613.