John J. Costa Jr, 92
ONSET - John J. Costa Jr, 92, of Onset, a devoted family man and steadfast pillar of his community, passed away surrounded by those he loved on November 23, 2025, at Tobey Hospital. He was the son of the late John J. DeCosta and Candida (Pinero) DeCosta.
He was known for his unwavering work ethic, his deep loyalty, and his lifelong commitment to the Cape Verdean community. John lived a life defined by dedication to his family, his union brothers, and the trades he proudly served for decades.
John was a hardworking union man whose career reflected both discipline and heart. He served with the Steamship Authority for 20 years, retiring at the remarkable age of 37. He continued his lifelong commitment to labor with Longshoremen Local 1413, where he proudly worked as a winchman as well. He later retired after an extraordinary 45 years in the Longshoreman’s union. His devotion to labor rights and the dignity of working people was further exemplified by more than 50 years of proud membership in the International Laborers Union Local 385.
In addition to his work in the trades, John was also a part-owner of The Bomb Shelter, a well-known establishment in New Bedford. His involvement there reflected his love of community and the friendships he built throughout his life. He was also a proud member of the Point Independence Yacht Club, where he enjoyed the fellowship and cherished traditions of the waterfront community.
Beyond his accomplishments, John was deeply rooted in love and family. He was the beloved husband of Midge McCoy-Costa, with whom he shared a partnership built on mutual devotion and enduring affection.
He leaves behind a proud and loving family. John is survived by his children, Byron Costa and his wife, Janet Costa of New Bedford; Craig McCoy of Buzzards Bay, John J. Costa III of Dartmouth, Donna Costa-Pryor and her husband, Daniel Pryor of Dartmouth and Jessica Connolly of Atlanta, GA. His strength, humor, and guidance shaped their lives, and his legacy lives on through each of them.
He was the was a loving brother of Eugene DeCosta and his wife, Sheila DeCosta of Mashpee.
John was a cherished grandfather whose presence brought warmth and love to every family gathering. He leaves his grandchildren, Jason Garcia, Sharyl Costa, Marcel Lopes, Mariah Connolly, Audriana Green, Will McCoy, Devyin Reid, Daniel Pryor II, and Dylan Pryor, as well as many great-grandchildren, who will carry his memory into the next generation. John was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
John J. Costa Jr. will be remembered as a man of honor, loyalty, and unwavering dedication, a hardworking, devoted, and deeply loved soul. His life touched many, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.
Visiting hours are from 3 to 5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, at Chapman Funerals & Cremations – WAREHAM, 2599 Cranberry Hwy., Wareham.
His funeral will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, from the funeral home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 4 Onset Bay Ln., Onset. Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Wareham.
