Paul Joseph Costanzo, 61, of Peabody, died on June 9 ^th 2018 as a result of injuries sustained in a tragic car accident.

Paul was a believer in Jesus Christ whom he followed after whole heartedly for the majority of his adult life. His dedication and passion for the things of God included playing music in his churches worship team or preaching every Sunday without fail. He put the things of God first because he knew that if his priorities were in order, everything else in his life would be protected. Paul is survived by his loving wife Maria Mendonca-Costanzo of 19 years. When they married, they often liked to joke that they formed the "Brady Bunch" as each of them had 3 kids ranging from ages 29 to 42. Paul's large family included children Joel Costanzo, Anne & Husband Daniel Harnden, Adam Costanzo, Michael & Wife Melanie Greene, Tina Carvalho and Amy & Husband Victor DaRosa. His grandchildren Amber, Tori, Jaxson & Saige. His siblings Johnny, Mark, Michael & Anthony Costanzo. Paul's family included many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. Paul is the son of the late Angelo Costanzo and Marie (Aucella) Costanzo. Paul is also survived by his first wife Gail Leuchars. While he would say he never played favorites, the one exception would have to be his 2 year old Grandson Jaxson, who was truly Papa Paul's best friend.

Along with his family he had many passions, interests and hobbies. The first thing we feel you need to know is that he would do anything for anyone. He continued to give even after death through organ donation. He would always befriend those whom society had either rejected or ignored whether it be a homeless man on the street or the veteran with social anxiety. To these incredible people he was known as Pastor Paul. He also ran several recovery support groups that helped those struggling with various addictions. He recently retired after 42 years of being an electrician in the Local 103 IBEW Union in Boston. He worked tirelessly to provide a comfortable life for his family. Him and his wife opened their doors over the years to those who might need a little help, from foster care children to those just struggling to find a home.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday June 18 ^th & Tuesday June 19 ^th at Murphy's Funeral Home (85 Federal St. Salem, MA) from 5PM-8PM. A celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday June 20 ^th at East Gate Christian Fellowship (207 Highland Avenue Salem, MA). All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be planting a memorial garden in Paul's honor and are requesting plants or donations to add to this tribute. Plants can be brought to the wake or sent directly to the home he shared with his wife. If you would like to send a donation or for more information about this memorial, please contact PapaPaulMemorialGarden@gmail.com .