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David Costa Obituary
David received his bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and master's degree at Boston University. He was a dedicated and beloved guidance counselor at East Lyme Middle School for over 39 years. Over the span of his career, he touched many lives with his genuine kindness and concern for others. For those who knew him, it was apparent he was truly one-of-a-kind.
David's calling was not limited to being a counselor. Throughout his career, he was known to coach basketball, floor hockey, and teach guitar lessons to his students. On many holidays, he would take the time to deliver meals and gifts to local struggling families. He was a relentlessly devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and son. His passion for serving others was ceaseless in every facet of his life.
David was a lifelong guitar player and lover of music. He enjoyed attending live music events regularly. He often impressed on others the importance of having music within one's life and the exhilaration the experience of watching it live gave.
David was predeceased by his parents, Lt. Col. Antone Costa and Marie Vincent Costa. He is survived by his wife Barbara Costa of East Lyme; his children, Amanda Costa of East Lyme and Danielle Costa of East Norwalk; son-in-law Christopher Duby; grandchildren, Raleigh Loring and Norah Duby; siblings, Kathryn Higbee, Michael Costa and Antone Costa; and former wife and friend, Susan Coffey.
Calling hours will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 12, at Thomas L. Neilan and Sons Funeral Home in Niantic. Other services held thereafter will be private to the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Costa
Sponsored by Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home.
Dumas Family
May 31, 2025
Saying a prayer for all of his loved ones.
DUMAS FAMILY
May 31, 2024
David Costa was such an asset to East Lyme Schools. He was not only a mentor and friend to the students, but just a good human being. The students always spoke so highly of Mr. Costa, & enjoyed just hanging out with him, and him teaching them to play guitar. Thinking of his family on this anniversary.
Kimberly Dumas
May 31, 2023
Hard to believe that it's been almost two years since we lost a wonderful person and mentor like David. He has been sorely missed by those who were lucky enough to have known him. Thank you David for being such a good friend to my son and daughter. RIP
Dumas Family
May 31, 2022
Always in our thoughts and prayers. David has been sorely missed. East Lyme Schools lost a wonderful role model and mentor.
The Rolfe Family
June 18, 2021
“Mr Coata” was one of kind! He took my boys under his wing, tutored & mentored them from middle school through their high school years. We are all very sad to see this news & send condolences to his family, extended family, friend. I’m confident there’s many stories of people whose life he touched, as with ours. RIP Mr Costa.
Laura Buckman
June 12, 2021
David was a wonderful, caring member of our family. He came to many of Scarlett’s birthday parties and was always so calm and kind. I could tell that he was so smart too. And he made my auntie, Barbie, so happy. I know that he was very respected in the school system and truly cared about the kids. We will miss you, David. Love, Laura, Scarlett and Bill
Laura Buckman
June 12, 2021
David was a wonderful, caring member of our family. He came to many of Scarlett’s birthday parties and was always so calm and kind. I could tell that he was so smart too. And he made my auntie, Barbie, so happy. I know that he was very respected in the school system and truly cared about the kids. We will miss you, David. Love, Laura, Scarlett and Bill
Laura Buckman
June 12, 2021
David was a wonderful, caring member of our family. He came to many of Scarlett’s birthday parties and was always so calm and kind. I could tell that he was so smart too. And he made my auntie, Barbie, so happy. I know that he was very respected in the school system and truly cared about the kids. We will miss you, David. Love, Laura, Scarlett and Bill
Kristi, Makayla, & Todd Desrosier
June 11, 2021
My family and I so sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Costa. He was a very kind man who was there for both of my kids during their time at ELMS. You could tell he cared deeply about the kids in the school as well as the families. It seems the good are always taken too soon. He will be missed. I am glad my family was lucky enough to know him
KIMBERLY DUMAS
June 9, 2021
David was an inspiration to all who knew him and a humble human being. He was detrimental in getting my son through middle school. He truly dedicated his life to our children and he will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Caryl Glock
June 8, 2021
Our condolences to the family of David Costa. We had many interactions with him at the East Lyme School systems over the years, as students ourselves and for our children. He was always a very nice, caring, and kind person. Genuinely , a pleasant man to interact with. We appreciate all he has done for us as well as the East Lyme community.
Our heartfelt sympathies for your family’s loss.
May he Rest In Peace
Cary Glock
June 8, 2021
Our condolences to the family of David Costa. We had many interactions with him at the East Lyme School systems over the years, as students ourselves and for our children. He was always a very nice, caring, and kind person. Genuinely , a pleasant man to interact with. We appreciate all he has done for us as well as the East Lyme community.
Our heartfelt sympathies for your family’s loss.
May he Rest In Peace.
Caryl Glock
June 8, 2021
Our condolences to the family of David Costa. We had many interactions with him at the East Lyme School systems over the years, as students ourselves and for our children. He was always a very nice, caring, and kind person. Genuinely , a pleasant man to interact with. We appreciate all he has done for us as well as the East Lyme community.
Our heartfelt sympathies for your family’s loss.
May he Rest In Peace.
Caryl
June 8, 2021
Our condolences to the family of David Costa. We had many interactions with him at the East Lyme School systems over the years, as students ourselves and for our children. He was always a very nice, caring, and kind person. Genuinely , a pleasant man to interact with. We appreciate all he has done for us as well as the East Lyme community.
Our heartfelt sympathies for your family’s loss.
May he Rest In Peace.
Carole Brown
June 7, 2021
Dave was kind, caring, and supportive. He had a calming demeanor and always made one feel welcome. I always looked forward to seeing him.
Martha Martin
June 7, 2021
David was a wonderful brother-in-law and a very dear friend. He was
always patient and non-judgmental. Truly he was one of the nicest people I have ever known and I will always keep him close in my heart.
My sincere sympathies to my sister Barbie and David's entire family.
Diane Critchfield
June 7, 2021
I remember David as warm and caring with a quick wit and easy smile. My sincere condolences to the family.
Showing 1 - 18 of 18 results
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Memorial Events
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Jun
12
Calling hours
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home48 Grand Street, Niantic, CT 06357
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Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home48 Grand Street, Niantic, CT 06357
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