Gale P. (Duxbury) Costa, 81, of Mattapoisett, graciously said goodbye to the world, on Thursday, April 2, 2020, listening to her wind chimes, surrounded by her loving family. Gale was the wife of the late Michael B. (“Mike”) Costa, and daughter of the late Harvey and Olivia E. (Berry) Duxbury. She was a communicant of St. Anthony’s Church, in Mattapoisett.
Gale grew up in the house on the land that she left this world in, however, she spent most of her life in Fairhaven. She was a graduate from Fairhaven High School in 1956, and then had a brief stint at the New England Baptist School of Nursing. Gale, an only child mind you, then had the mad, insane idea to have eight children. Being in the family restaurant business this offered Gale and Mike labor alternatives.
Gale did not stop there. She was also involved as a FHS Pep Squad Coach, Cub Scout den mother and would always be found at the FHS end zone with the coaches wives using her deafening whistle to rally the FHS Blue Devils. Gale wasn’t just the mother of her own brood. We believe if you ask anyone who grew up in Fairhaven in the 60’s through 80’s, you’d find fond memories of “Mrs. Costa“ being the second mom to a significant bunch of misfits.
In 1980, Gale was nominated as the Standard Times Mother of the Year. An award she deserved and earned for her sacrifices and love that she gave to her family and the countless many in the Fairhaven area and throughout her lifetime.
Along with reading, being a wiz at crossword puzzles, and sitting on the porch listening to her birds sing, she loved spending time with family and friends, especially her grandchildren.
Gale leaves behind her children; Frank, Steve (and wife, Linda), Judy (and husband, Mark), Michael (and husband, Andrew), David, Patricia (and husband, Daniel), Rocky (and wife, Olivia), and Abby. Behind them are the 13 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, loving nieces, nephews, Fitz (her faithful companion and guardian), and the many friends that she, and we, have called family over the years.
We will miss you Mom. You have been the rock and binding glue of this family. We are sure you will have a few choice words for St. Peter when you see him – just remember to be easy on him.
Given the current circumstances, there will be a private family-only service at Fairhaven Funeral Home, with a celebration of her life at a later date and venue to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, we all just ask you to remember our Mom as she was to you, and how, we know, she touched all of your hearts.
And when you run into one of us, don’t forget to share your fondest memory of our Beloved.
