Raymond L. Costello

Raymond L. "Ray" Costello
December 16, 1938 - May 14, 2024

Raymond L. Costello “Ray” passed away peacefully at Anna Jaques Hospital on May 14th, 2024.

Raymond was born on December 16, 1938 in Newburyport and was the son of the late John and Phyllis (Kuzma) Costello. He grew up in Newburyport and graduated from Newburyport High School.

Ray was a very hard worker from the time he was a teenager until his retirement in 2011 working 2 jobs at the same time most of his life. He had many different jobs over the years. He was a milk man for his father-in-law at Sunrise Dairy, West Newbury in his early 20’s. After that he worked at GE as a test technician, Trico as a salesman, Lunt’s Auto as a mechanic and for Keiver Willard Lumber for 20 years as a truck driver until his retirement.

One of his greatest passions was being a fire fighter, having served on West Newbury, Newbury and Newburyport fire departments. He was proud to have been Chief of Newbury Fire Department for a time. He also had a love for astronomy and trains. He had the best sense of humor and was joking right up to the end. He was a very generous man and would do anything to help his family.

Ray was an avid musician, having played piano and trumpet and was part of 2 bands. He played by ear, never reading sheet music.

Ray is survived by his wife, June M. Costello of Salisbury, MA, his children, Michael M. Costello and wife Catherine of Southport, NC, his daughter, Kathryn A. (Costello) Maguire of Epping, NH, his step-daughters Deborah Manfridi of Wakefield, NH and Sandra Sullivan of Salisbury, MA, his grandchildren, Jonathan Costello and wife Ivana, Sarah Costello Weyburn and husband Justin, James Costello, Jennifer (Maguire) Bergeron and husband Michael, Robert Maguire and step-grandchildren Emma and Abby Sullivan. He is also survived by 5 great grandchildren, his niece, Susan O’Neil and husband Tim and nephew Christopher Haley. He was predeceased by his sister Lorraine (Costello) Haley.

Services will be private for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements were by Elliott, Woodworth & Rogers Family Funeral Home, 35 Green Street, Newburyport, MA 01950.