Thomas "TJ" John Costello

July 8, 2025

It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Thomas "TJ" John Costello, 43, on July 8, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, TJ was the beloved son of Tom and Marty Costello. A proud graduate of St. Ignatius High School, he was a standout football player whose leadership and talent earned him an appointment to the Naval Academy Prep School. From there, he joined the U.S. Naval Academy as a member of 21st Company, graduating in 2005 with a degree in Economics. On the field, TJ was the heart of Navy Football's Inside Linebacker Corps, a three-year letter winner, and an Emerald Bowl Champion.

Upon graduation, TJ was commissioned as an Infantry Officer in the United States Marine Corps, where he led combat operations in Iraq with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines. He served with courage, humility, and a profound sense of duty.

After his time in the military, TJ continued to forge his own pathworking multiple jobs while earning his MBA from Queens University. He rose to become Vice President of Operations at Charlotte Pipe & Foundry, a role he fulfilled with integrity and passion.

A man of unwavering faith and deep compassion, TJ was a devoted volunteer at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Charlotte, where he served meals to those in need. He also coached football at Holy Trinity Middle School, sharing not only his love of the game, but his values of teamwork, perseverance, and honor.

TJ was known for his selfless nature, fierce honesty, sharp wit, and unwavering optimism. He had a gift for finding the good in every person and the lesson in every challenge. His laughter filled every room, and his love for life, service, and others was contagious. He was both deeply stubborn and endlessly generous, a man of true conviction and enormous heart.

Above all, TJ was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Julia, and their three beloved children: Finley (18), Harper (15), and Claira (13). Their eldest, Finley, reported to the U.S. Naval Academy on Induction Day this July, forging his own path of service and honor. TJ also leaves behind his parents, Tom and Marty, his brother, Andy Costello, and many beloved nieces and nephews, cousins & treasured friends.

TJ built a life of meaning, purpose, and joy. His impact on his family, community, teammates, and those he served will be felt forever.

To honor TJ's legacy of faith, family, and service, please visit https://www.navyfootballbrotherhood.org/support/t-j-costello to make a donation in his memory. 100% of the proceeds will benefit his wife and children.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, July 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM at St. Peter Catholic Church, 507 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202. Parking is available at "The Green" garage (P2 Blue Level) and validation tickets will be provided.
 

A reception will follow at 3:00 PM at Truist Field Diamonds Direct Luxury Lounge, 324 South Mint Street, Charlotte, NC 28202. Enter through the main gates and head to the 2nd floor. 

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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Comments

  • tim brown

    I got to know TJ thru his time at Charlotte Pipe. We conversed about foundry practice at the new facility since some of the practices were different than their old foundry. TJ was very willing to ask good and hard questions on the new practices. that impressed me. I stayed in touch with him over the several year process. I did not realize he went to St Ignatius which played against my High School Football Coach George Curry of Berwick. I just talked to him a few months ago and invited him up to Benton Foundry for a visit and bring some of his people along. The news is a shock and I realize the family is going thru very trying times. So sorry.

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  • Mary DeFour

    Our son is in N/ 26 this summer and our family simply wanted to offer our hearts and prayers to you and your children ? I am so very sorry and pray for comfort and peace of the Lord will surround each of you. With love, Mary

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  • Jim Chambers

    TJ was a great friend, teammate, classmate and leader. He put his life on the line for his country. My thoughts and prayers to the Costello family. May he rest in peace.

    Jim Chambers St. Ignatius class of 2000

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  • David DeLuca

    My sincere sympathies to the Costello family. Great people leave impressions. TJ, or simply Costello as we referred to him at Ignatius, was one of those real, great people. I fondly remember him throughout our four years of school together as truly being a man for others and always having a good sense of self and confidence that was inspiring to those around him. Many years later, I had the off chance of meeting some of his Naval Academy classmates, and sure enough, that impressive presence was shared amongst them as well. His passing has not only been a shock, but a fond reminder of how important life is and that if
    we only leave impressions upon people as we depart, then Costello’s was a great, positive one.

    Dave DeLuca, St. Ignatius class of 2000

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  • Maureen McCalvey Milne

    Hearing of Tommy’s passing is so heartbreaking and know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your whole family. My sisters and I have
    so many happy memories with Aunt Lois and Uncle Tom and Colleen and Tommy. We are so sad for all of you to loose such a wonderful dad and husband and son at such a young age. We send our love to you all.

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  • Jim Convertino

    Dear Andy and family: my sincere condolences on TJ's passing. You are all in my thoughts.
    Sincerely,
    Jim Convertino

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  • Conor McLaughlin

    T.J. was a great person, great athlete, and great friend. My sincerest condolences to the Costello family.

    Conor McLaughlin, St. Ignatius class of 2000

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  • Tracey Stone and Andy Jones

    We were shocked and saddened to hear of your loss of TJ. Although we only had the pleasure of spending time with your family in neighborhood occasions, the values reflected by the poise, graciousness and respect displayed by your children, spoke to us of the parental guidance that they have been fortunate to experience. TJ ‘s impact will live on as your children grow into the adults with the values that he exhibited. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

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  • Lillian Grace

    Tom and Mary, you have my deepest condolences on your family’s loss. I didn’t know TJ but I wish I had, he sounded like a remarkable person. No words can bring you comfort at this time, just know your being supported through thoughts and prayers. ?❤️

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  • Moe Cieri

    TJ was such a welcome blessing at the Roof Above Soup Kitchen. His joyful spirit and welcoming heart for our unsheltered neighbors will surly be missed.
    And he made 30 gallons of the best soup in Charlotte.
    I will miss you, TJ.

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