Janet Louise Costello

Janet Louise Costello, born February 2, 1958, lost a courageous battle with cancer on January 8, 2025. Janet was the daughter of the late Charles and Teresa Weiss. She was the beloved wife of Edward J. Costello for 40 years, a loving mother to Pamela Costello (husband, Scott Finklestein) and Briana Ritter (husband, Christopher), and a devoted grandmother to Dean, Declan, and Mabel. Janet is survived by her siblings Irene DiGravio (husband, John), Kenneth (partner, Jason), Laura Heil (husband, Steve) and Hugh (partner, Saul).

Before and while raising her family, Janet worked as an office administrator first in the computer industry and then as a legal administrator for a NYC real estate law firm. She was known for being the most organized, detail-oriented colleague to get the job done. 

Janet’s life was defined by her unwavering love for her family. Her compassion and selflessness knew no bounds. Her family always came first, and she dedicated her life to caring for her daughters and creating a home filled with warmth and love. A dedicated Girl Scout Leader, PTA volunteer, and dance mom; she always put more than 100% into everything she did. Janet was a kind and sensitive woman who despite her soft-spoken nature and fear of breaking the rules, was the life of the party when boogey boarding, reggae music, or fireball and Jello shots were involved! Janet had a gift for making everyone around her feel like family, and her joyful, radiant spirit touched all who knew her.

She was fiercely strong in the face of adversity, particularly in her battle with cancer over the past two plus years and she never gave up. Through it all, Janet’s determination and strength were an inspiration to all who witnessed her fight. Tenacity is the one word that defined Janet’s life, and she sourced the best oncology team to take on her challenge.

Janet is survived by countless loving friends and family who cherished her deeply. Her legacy of kindness, love, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her love, strength, and spirit will continue to inspire and bring comfort to those who loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Janet’s memory to the University of Pennsylvania’s Abramson Cancer Center: https://www.pennmedicine.org/cancer/giving.