In Loving Memory of William Thomas "Wild Bill" Costello

William T (Billy) Costello, age 71, of Obetz, OH passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, after a brief bout with cancer and surrounded by his loved ones.

Born February 6, 1955, in Columbus, OH, Billy was the son of William J and Doris D. Costello. Throughout life, he was known for his big heart, quick wit, and generous and caring spirit. His final acts of giving included donating his hair for wigs for cancer patients and, upon his death, donating his corneas so that someone else can enjoy the gift of sight.

He served his country as a Corpsman in the US Navy from 1978-1984 while stationed in San Diego, CA and Norfolk, VA. Billy also earned degrees in Radio Broadcasting, Marketing and Nursing - enthusiastically serving as a pediatric nurse, here in Columbus, to round out his career.

Billy was passionate about his family especially his children; Ryan, Scott, Jennifer (Brian), and his grandkids; Morgan, Reagan, Brynna and, his namesake Thomas (aka T-Bone), and his Great Grandson River. These eight individuals were the center of his universe and the driving force for everything he did. His love for THE Ohio State Buckeyes, his Irish heritage (a proud Shamrock Club member) and music of all sorts, especially rock and roll, are examples of the emotions he wore on his sleeve for all the world to see. Wild Bill touched many lives through his story telling, jokes and deep loving spirit. He was a man who was not easily forgotten!

Those who knew Billy will remember him for his ability to dance, his wit, his love of Little League baseball, his eternal optimism, and his ability to move to the front row of every concert he attended, earning him the second nickname of "Front Row Bill". He brought joy, love, and strength to all who had the privilege of knowing him; he was one of a kind.

Billy is survived by his loving children and grandchildren, his siblings Diane (Rick), Beth (Todd) and Chris (Michele), many nieces and nephews, cousins, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Doris and brothers Kneel and Patrick.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Woodyard Funeral Home, 1346 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43207 with a viewing from 11am - 1:00pm and funeral service from 1:00pm - 2:00pm. Details regarding a gathering afterwards will be shared at the funeral home.

William Thomas will be deeply missed and forever remembered by family, friends, and all whose lives were enriched by his indomitable presence.

To honor Billy's generous spirit of giving, the family kindly request donations be made to:

- Ricky Clowson and Kneeland Costello Memorial (Scholarship Bexley High School):  https://columbusfoundation.org/search/scholarships/detail/RickyClowsonandKneelandCostelloMemorial/61   or via USPS: The Columbus, Foundation, 1234 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43205-1453

- Honor Flight Columbus: www.honorflightcmh.org or via USPS: Honor Flight Columbus, PO Box 20133, Columbus OH 43220