Obituary of James Joseph Costello

James Joseph Costello, of Madison, peacefully went home to the Lord on the evening of Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at the age of 78. A devoted husband, loving brother, cherished uncle, and steadfast friend, Jim’s life was a testament to his deep faith and unwavering commitment to serving others.

Jim is survived by his wife and best friend of 51 years, Jody Costello (née Borghese); one brother, Daniel James Costello and his wife Diane; four nephews, Kevin Costello and his wife Jennifer, Daniel Costello, Jr., Joseph LoGiudice and his wife Millie & Paul LoGiudice; four nieces, Beth Ann Crosby & Rebecca Lonecke and her husband Bill, Laura LoGiudice and Mark Ghobril & Lisa Ricca; several great-nieces & great-nephews; and a wide circle of dear friends who will dearly miss his presence.

He was predeceased by his parents, James J. Costello and Anne Patricia Costello, and his beloved sister, Judith Anne Costello, who passed away in 2020.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Jim grew up in a close-knit Catholic family, a foundation that shaped the compassionate and generous man he became. He and Jody shared a beautiful partnership, coming together in marriage on May 26, 1974, after two years of companionship. Their life journey took them from Brooklyn to Madison in 1993, where they built lasting memories and a strong community of family and friends.

Jim’s professional life was marked by integrity and dedication as an auditor for the Department of Health and Human Services. Over a long career, he specialized in auditing Medicare and Medical Insurance companies, earning respect and admiration from colleagues. He retired in 2003 but his commitment to service only deepened in retirement.

He generously devoted his time to St. Vincent Martyr Church and the Knights of Columbus. Jim was a vital presence in many ministries including the funeral and baptism ministries, the Pre-Cana team, and organizing volunteers at the Morristown soup kitchen, after being a volunteer himself. He was a passionate advocate for the homebound and was instrumental in bringing Men’s Cornerstone to the church. As a fourth-degree Knight, he delighted in creating the Knights of Columbus Christmas parade float and organizing the Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest.

Beyond his church and community service, Jim was an active member of the Madison Rotary Club, where he made valuable contributions, including starting an award-winning newsletter.

An avid reader and Civil War history enthusiast, Jim explored numerous historical sites, enriching his love for history and sharing it with others. Jim and Jody enjoyed traveling extensively throughout the United States and Europe on many memorable trips and both enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

Jim lived a life defined by selflessness and faith. His countless good deeds and quiet acts of kindness will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a good man whose legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire. May he Rest in Peace.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend the visitation for Jim to be held on Sunday, December 28, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, December 29, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vincent Martyr Church, 26 Green Village Road, Madison. For those who wish to attend the mass virtually, please visit www.svmnj.org/livestream-mass

Interment will follow at St. Vincent’s Cemetery, Madison

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to St. Vincent Martyr Church, 26 Green Village Road, Madison.