Roger Wesley Costa

Roger Wesley Costa, 83, a lifelong believer and servant of Jesus Christ, met his Savior on Friday, January 2, 2026 leaving his loving wife of 58 years, Carole Allen Costa; daughter Pamela Renee Costa; sister Esther Costa Swink (Jeff); brother-in-law Rev. Tom Riley; sister-in-law Denise La Bella (John); niece Monique Sorice (Alex); and a host of friends. He was born on November 1, 1942 to Rev. Jerry and Mrs. Viola Costa in Louisville, Kentucky. He graduated Trevecca Nazarene College in 1964 holding the unique position of having attended Trevecca from first grade through his graduation from college. He taught middle school science for 30 years to hundreds of students in Metro Nashville Public Schools.

Roger was a faithful church member at Nashville Blakemore Church of the Nazarene and for the past 24 years at Nashville First Church of the Nazarene. He loved doing mission work, helping to construct churches and schools in over 35 countries around the world, often with his father, and was recently honored by Nashville First Church of the Nazarene for this service.

Roger loved sports, watching and playing football and basketball in college and throughout his life until his disability, a result of childhood polio, prevented this pursuit. He was an enthusiastic “bleeding purple and white” alumnus of Trevecca, named to the Trojan Hall of Fame for meritorious service. He engaged continually in activities and events. He served as referee and scorekeeper for many years. He was an avid fan of the Vanderbilt Commodores, Kentucky Wildcats, and Cincinnati Reds. His collection of baseball cards, over which he poured many hours, is extensive.

Roger enjoyed games, jokes, and pranks with his many friends to whom he showed compassion from his tender heart. He was industrious and available to do many good works. Together, he and Carole opened their hearts and home, lovingly “adopting” several children and grandchildren into their family.

Roger leaves a legacy of love for God and his family, focus on missions through action, service to his church and other worthy causes, affection for friends, and helpfulness to many. He was one of the “good ones” who made our world a better place. We are blessed by his example.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Nashville First Church of the Nazarene, 510 Woodland Street with visitation from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. prior to the service with burial at Hermitage Memorial Gardens at 3:00 p.m. To live-stream the service, go online to www.nfcn.org/watch

Memorial gifts may be sent to: Trevecca Nazarene University, Costa/Swink Scholarship Fund, Hardy Alumni Building, 333 Murfreesboro Road Nashville, TN 37210.