John Raymond Costello, 62, a longtime resident of Dennis, Massachusetts, passed away on March 7, 2026.

Born June 16, 1963, in Weston, Massachusetts. John attended Weston High School before continuing his education at Boston College and later earning his Juris Doctor, summa cum laude, from Suffolk University Law School.

On May 6, 1988, he married his beloved wife and best friend, Suzanne “Suzi” Costello. Together, they created a life centered on their love. His children, Michael Costello of Dennis and John Robert Costello of Boston, were the pride and joy of his days. His family was the reason for everything he achieved, providing them with all that a father could.

Earlier in his career, John served as Chief Complaint Counsel for the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, commuting daily from Dennis to Wakefield for nearly five years.

His proudest professional chapter came later in life while he served as First Assistant Clerk Magistrate for the Barnstable County District Court. In that role, John became known for his fairness, integrity, and sharp intellect. He believed deeply in treating every person who entered the courtroom with dignity and respect, carrying that principle into every case and conversation. Colleagues throughout the Barnstable legal community knew him as thoughtful, principled, and deeply committed to public service. It was work he took great pride in and considered the honor of his professional life.

A devoted father, John coached and encouraged his children in baseball, travel soccer, basketball, musical interests and performing arts. Known for his humor, creativity, and kindness, he had a gift for making people feel understood and welcome in his presence. Above all, John believed in showing up for people. His home was always open. His children's friends were treated as family the very moment they walked through his door.

John enjoyed funk music, cult classic movies, bringing home a bargain, and cheering on the Boston Bruins. A talented writer and skilled craftsman, he loved knowing the perfect way to fix things with his hands and his words. He could truly build anything he “mocked up” in his thoughtful artistic vision.

He was predeceased by his parents, Ora Ann Costello (Kelly) and John Walter Costello.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne Costello; his children, Michael Costello of Dennis and John Robert Costello of Boston; his siblings Maureen Trippe, Brian Costello, TJ Costello, Matthew Costello; his extended siblings Robert Richards, Michelle Cooney, and Jennifer Getchell; as well as his many adored nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A remembrance will be held Saturday, March 21, from 9 a.m. to noon at Hallett Funeral Home, 273 Station Ave., South Yarmouth, with a eulogy at approximately 11 a.m.

John was a tremendous asset to the Barnstable court system. He was always professional and a true gentleman. It was with great sadness to learn of his passing. He will truly be missed.

The news of John's passing is so sad and unexpected. Our families were neighbors in Jamaica Plain for many years before the Costello clan headed out to Weston. John, being the youngest and not yet in school, dutifully brought the morning edition of the Boston Globe to my parents - even if Mr Costello had not yet had a chance to peruse the paper! John demonstrated at a young age what a kind and generous person he was. My heart goes out to Suzanne, Michael and John Robert as well as Maureen, Brian, TJ and Matthew. Much love, Mary Coeline "Beane" Colpoys

Mike, my deepest condolences to you and your family.

Deepest sympathy and condolences to the Costello Family. We are wishing you all of God's blessings!

I am truly sorry to hear about your loss.

Everyone knows the Corinthians passage that begins with “Love is patient, love is kind.” My brother John asked me to do this Reading at his wedding to Suzanne in 1988. They lived this life of love together. As a family, we are absolutely crushed by John’s passing. He was the best of all of us - a fierce defender of those he loved. He made everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room. He made our parents so proud. Sending all the love in our hearts to Suzanne, John Robert and Michael.We are standing with you, just as John always stood so solidly for you. Always, Maureen, Brian, TJ, Matthew

Everyone knows the Corinthians passage that begins with “Love is patient, love is kind.” My brother John asked me to do this Reading at his wedding to Suzanne in 1988. They lived this life of love together. As a family, we are absolutely crushed by John’s passing. He was the best of all of us - a fierce defender of those he loved. He made everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room. He made our parents so proud. We are sending all the love in our hearts to Suzanne, John Robert and Michael.We are standing with you, just as John always stood so solidly for you. Always, Maureen, Brian, TJ and Matthew

Deepest sympathy to cousin Johnny’s family. May his memory be a blessing.

I am heartbroken to hear this news. The McCaffertys and Costellos grew up together at Woodland and I have such great memories of those years. John was funny, kind, and a bit mischievous. I'm thinking of all you as you navigate this difficult time. RIP, John. You will be missed by everyone.

To the Costello Family: Please accept my deepest condolences for the loss of a truly good man. I knew John mostly as a formidable adversary when he was prosecuting - and I was defending - cases at the Board of Registration in Medicine. He always practiced law with great skill and integrity, and he always treated opposing counsel, and defendants, with courtesy and respect. I am certain that his memory will always be a blessing to his family. Paul Cirel

Mike and Family I am truly sorry for your loss.

What a beautiful obituary and an incredible legacy John leaves behind. A kind, gracious, multi talented wonderful father, husband, uncle, brother in law, brother, son, friend, craftsman and attorney. We are all in shock. We are going to miss our Johnny so very much

Suzanne & Family, My deepest condolences to you. John was a remarkable man and he will be truly missed by his BDC Family.