John Costa

John was an exceptional person and awesome newspaperman. I had the distinct privilege of working with him for a decade. His expertise allowed our newspaper to grow market share and revenue and receive numerous awards many attributed directly to his editorial leadership. He is not only missed but thought of often. Keith and Peggy Foutz

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Thinking about you during this difficult time, Denise. We have thought about you, John and family often over the years. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

A wonderful neighbor in South Tampa in 80’s and early 90’s. Our daughters were dear friends when they were little. Blessings to Denise, Claire, Anthony and Timothy.
Fondly from the Morales family on Lamb Ave

I worked closely with John for almost a decade at The Bulletin in Bend, Or. He was a dedicated, smart, hard working Editor who I considered a friend as well as colleague.

I read a lot about John bring a tough, hard- charging newsman, and he was. He was conservative in some of his views but progressive in others. For instance, he hired me as an executive sports editor of an all- male sports department back in the 80s. He, more than any other editor at The St. Petersburg Times took a chance hiring women and people of color. Unlike a lot of interviews I had, he simply asked, “ tell me about yourself.” I later recognized the brilliance in that question. It put...