Reverend Monsignor Patrick James (Jim) Costigan died unexpectedly on Sunday at his residence in Templemore, a town in County Tipperary, Ireland, according to The Roman Catholic Diocese of Savannah. He was 82 years old.

Costigan's passing was announced on the diocese's website, which shared a heartfelt obituary outlining his life's journey and the impact he made on countless lives.

A Life Devoted to Service

Ordained a priest for the Diocese of Savannah at the Cathedral of the Assumption in Carlow, Ireland, on June 6, 1967, Costigan dedicated more than 56 years of his life to serving the Catholic community. His journey began as Assistant Rector of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah in January 1969. His service continued as an Assistant Pastor at Sacred Heart Church in Augusta, where he served in various capacities from 1969–1972.

A Leader in Savannah

In 1972, Costigan was appointed Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Savannah, a position he held for ten years. He eventually returned to Augusta as pastor of St. Mary on the Hill, where he served for twenty years.

Throughout the remainder of his active priesthood, Costigan served in and around Savannah. First at St. James the Less Church, then St. Michael Church on Tybee Island, and finally at St. Peter the Apostle, where he was Pastor from 2008–2016, and then Senior Parochial Vicar until his retirement in 2018.

A Distinguished Legacy

Costigan's contributions extended beyond his pastoral roles. He was a cherished member of the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee, where he was known for his warm personality and expertise in the art of crafting the perfect Irish Coffee.

Farewell and Remembrance

A funeral mass for Costigan will be held at Sacred Heart Church in Templemore, Ireland on Thursday, September 5. A memorial mass will be celebrated at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist in Savannah on Tuesday, October 1 at 11 a.m.

A Legacy of Faith and Laughter

Costigan's passing leaves a void in the hearts of countless individuals he touched throughout his life. His legacy as a devoted priest, a compassionate leader, and a friend to many will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew him. His unwavering faith, his warmth, and his infectious laughter will remain as cherished memories for generations to come. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on through the lives he touched.