Elizabeth Mary Costello

1928 - 2026

OBITUARY:

Elizabeth Mary Costello, a lifelong resident of the Wappingers Falls area, passed away peacefully at home on April 7, 2026, just two days shy of her 98th birthday. She was born in Poughkeepsie, NY on April 9, 1928, the daughter of the late James and Anna (née Hawthorne) Costello. Though born in Poughkeepsie, her family later moved to New Hamburg, where she attended Wappinger Central Schools.

Elizabeth was a communicant of Saint Mary’s Church in Wappingers Falls and a member of the Wappinger Senior Center, where she enjoyed her time. She loved playing cards, was an enthusiastic bingo player, and took great pride in her gardening.

In her younger years, Elizabeth enjoyed fishing, swimming, and ice skating. During her working years, she found joy in bowling alongside her sister Jane and sister-in-law Gloria, often traveling together for weekend tournaments. Later in life, she continued to enjoy traveling, especially with her sister Jane and sister-in-law Betty. Above all, Elizabeth cherished family gatherings, particularly Sunday dinners, and had a special love for animals—especially her dogs.

To call Elizabeth feisty would be an understatement but she was fiercely loyal and deeply generous. Though she lived modestly, she rarely missed a chance to slip a few dollars into the hands of the younger members of her family.

She began her career at the Hat Factory in Beacon and later worked for many years in manufacturing at IBM in Poughkeepsie and East Fishkill, retiring in 1983. She embraced retirement fully, always finding ways to stay busy. In her later years, as her appetite for large meals waned, she developed a fondness for nighttime snacking. Her bedside table was never without her favorites: green grapes, a banana, a sleeve of graham crackers, bologna and cheese and “don’t be stingy” on the Hershey’s Kisses. A habit that even brought a smile to her doctor’s face.

Elizabeth is survived by her many nieces and nephews: Eileen Andros (Brian), Charles LeRoy (Karen), Nancy Niet (Frank), James LeRoy (Loretta), Patricia McNamee, Mike Costello, James Costello (Yvonne), David Costello (Patricia), William Costello, Lawrence Costello (Meme), Jean Harrington, and Kevin Costello. She is also survived by numerous great-nieces and nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews, and even a great-great-great-nephew.

She was lovingly cared for at home by devoted aides and family members, with special gratitude to Lia Sanchez, Laurie Schmauch, and Pattie McNamee for their compassionate care.

Family and friends will gather to honor Elizabeth’s life and lay her to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Wappingers Falls on Friday, April 24 at 11 AM. To offer condolences or share a memory, please visit www.DelehantyFuneral.com.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE:

Friday, April 24

11:00 AM

St. Mary's Cemetery 19 Clinton Street, Wappingers Falls, NY

INTERMENT:

St. Mary's Cemetery 19 Clinton Street, Wappingers Falls, NY