Neal Joseph Costigan died peacefully on May 13th, 2024, in his home on Staten Island, NY, succumbing to his long-fought battle with brain cancer. He lived a full and blessed life, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and a deep love for family and country.

Neal was born and raised in Rhode Island, the oldest child of the late Milton "Chick" Costigan and his wife Mary (Wall). He was a proud alumnus of Saint Raphael Academy (Class of 1968).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Anne (McKenna-Gallo) of Staten Island. He is also survived by his children, Erin Schwab and her husband James of Pawtucket, RI, Moira Carraher and her husband Timothy of Lincoln, RI, Sean Costigan and his wife Amy of Southborough, MA, Jessica Rodrigo and her husband Dennis of Staten Island, NY, and Cecelia Verderosa and her husband Guy of New Windsor, NY. He was blessed with nine grandchildren, and one great-grandchild: Ashley, Aiden, James, Liam, Van, Maeve, Brennan, Brigid, Rowan, and Lola. He leaves behind his siblings, Anne Marie Pailthorpe and her husband David of Pawtucket, RI, Paul Costigan and his wife Rosemary of Pawtucket, RI, and Raymond Costigan and his wife Gael of Exeter, RI.

Neal dedicated his entire professional life to the service of others. In various capacities as a nurse and paramedic, he touched the lives of countless patients, but more resoundingly impacted each of his colleagues and coworkers in a special way. Neal is fondly remembered in nursing circles, and was a veritable pillar in the Emergency Medical Services of the region. His guidance and support were instrumental in shaping the careers of many. As a leader, Neal was renowned for his exceptional ability to bring out the best in others. Neal was a mentor, a confidant, and a friend, balancing his demand for performance and accountability with fostering a supportive environment of trust. As an educator, Neal possessed a remarkable combination of intelligence, integrity, and inspiration that influenced an untold number of clinicians.

A proud son of Ireland, Neal carried with him the rich traditions and cultural heritage of Ireland wherever he went, weaving them into the fabric of his life with reverence and pride. He had a fierce love for Irish music, history, and storytelling. He delighted in recounting tales and exploits with family, and friends alike. No one was a stranger to Neal, merely friends he hadn't yet met.

As proud as he was of his Irish history and heritage, nothing compared to Neal's pride in his greatest treasure: his family. An admiring grin and a sparkle in his eye were ever-present as he gazed upon his loved ones, watching them grow, achieve, perform, and excel. He further extended that warmth during the holiday season to innumerable other children, masquerading in the role of Santa, joined by his own Mrs. Claus at his side.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to Visiting hours on Monday, May 20th from 4:00 - 8:00 PM in the Manning-Heffern-O'Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage St., Pawtucket. The funeral and burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation , 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306, would be greatly appreciated.

Neal will be deeply missed. Though his physical presence may no longer be with us, his love, laughter, and legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to be touched by his life.