Amanda V. Broadmeadow, 27, of Lincoln, died peacefully on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family, following a courageous battle with glioblastoma.
She was the loving wife of Cole Durham, with whom she celebrated her second wedding anniversary on May 4.
Born in Providence, a daughter of Paul and Kristine (Pomposelli) Broadmeadow of Lincoln, Amanda was a gifted learner. After graduating from Lincoln High School, she attended the University of Rochester and received a BS in Physics and Astronomy cum laude with highest distinction. Amanda continued on to graduate school at the University of Maryland where she earned her master’s degree in Astrophysics and would have obtained her doctorate in the coming years. As if this path into academia was not impressive enough, Amanda was the recipient of several prestigious awards along the way, including the Stoddard Prize, Chambliss Award, and National Science Foundation Graduate Research Program grant. She is also the lead author of an article published in the Astrophysical Journal concerning the formation of hot cores (young stellar objects) in the Large Magellanic Cloud. While accruing personal accolades, Amanda was a passionate advocate for women in STEM as both member and president of the Society of Women in Astronomy and Physics at the University of Rochester. She also enjoyed introducing younger students to the wonders of outer space through Skype a Scientist and similar outreach programs.
Amanda was an avid reader whose very nature – in keeping with her love for fantasy – evoked images of Fangorn Forest and Lothlórien. When not lost in a good book, she could often be found playing games with her family; her mastery of Jenga, Spot It, and Tetris was a constant source of pride. She found meaning during hikes (particularly beneath fall foliage) in locations as close by as Chase Farm and Norman Bird Sanctuary, and as far away as the California Redwoods and the Scottish Highlands. No matter where she was or what she was doing, Amanda would always find a way to listen to her eclectic collection of favorite songs, with Hozier and Paris Paloma making frequent appearances. Amanda was a woman of many facets; those close to her would see a different side each day and come to love someone new.
In addition to her husband and parents, she is survived by her maternal grandparents, Joseph and Sharon Pomposelli of North Providence; three sisters, Kayla Broadmeadow of Cranston, Courtney Broadmeadow of Lakeville, Mass., and Tara Broadmeadow of Lincoln; one brother, Christopher Broadmeadow of Dighton, Mass.; her puppy, Athena; and five nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to visiting hours on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Bellows Funeral Chapel, 160 River Road, Lincoln, and to the Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 10 a.m. in Saint Jude Church, 301 Front St., Lincoln. Amanda’s burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory to The American Brain Tumor Association would be appreciated. Please follow this link to Amanda’s Memorial Donation Page – https://give.abta.org/AmandaBroadmeadow.
For directions or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.bellowsfuneralchapel.com.
