Promoted to Glory: Major Pete Costas
Major Pete Costas was Promoted to Glory from his home in Stallings, NC, on Sunday, March 3, 2024.
Pete Dennis Costas, Jr., known as “Buddy” to his family and friends, was born on September 13, 1954, in Norfolk, VA, to parents Majors Pete & Ruth Costas. His parents’ ministry led the family to various corps appointments in Virginia and West Virginia, where Pete would form lifelong friendships with his school classmates and fellow Salvationists. During his youth he developed a passion for music and songwriting that he carried with him throughout his life.
While living in Arlington, VA, Pete fell in love with Cathy Beane, and the two were married on October 15, 1977. They soon acknowledged God’s call to become Salvation Army officers and entered the Evangeline Booth College as members of the God’s Soldiers session of cadets.
Commissioned in 1981, they were blessed to spend their entire 40 years of service in the North & South Carolina Division. Their corps appointments included Smithfield, Charlotte Temple, Kinston, Asheville, Hickory, Wilmington, Raleigh, NC; and Greenville, SC—before a second appointment to Charlotte Temple.
They also served at divisional headquarters, with Major Pete as divisional Boys & Girls Club director, and divisional program secretary.
Majors Pete & Cathy Costas entered honored retirement on July 1, 2021.
In 2009, Major Pete was diagnosed with MDS, a rare type of blood cancer, and was given an estimated life expectancy of five years. After beating this prognosis, his doctor told him, “Pete, you are really a miracle!”
Major Pete treated each day as a gift and took every opportunity to create meaningful connections with people and to share God’s love. He enjoyed reconnecting with friends on social media and in recent years became active in his high school reunion committees, which enriched friendships from decades past. His heart belonged to the corps ministry, his congregations, and the Boys & Girls Clubs across the division.
He loved telling stories, especially from the pulpit of his recliner, and in 2020 he compiled a collection of short stories and testimonials, the title of which aptly describes his life: Places to Go…People to See!
Major Pete began experiencing further health issues in early 2024, and in February was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer of the liver. The last weeks of his life were spent in the loving company of family and friends.
Even in his rapidly declining condition, he continued to say how blessed he was. He provided a true example of a life in service to the Lord and has now been welcomed into His arms.
Major Pete Costas is survived by his wife of 46 years, Major Cathy Costas; his three daughters, Anne (John) Costas Copeland, Stephanie Costas (Tilden Engle), and Rebecca Costas (Tameem Jamil); and his son Pete Costas III (“Trip”). He was also known as “Pop-Pop” to Hannah, Cara, Eden, Emerson, Ailey, Whitman, and Eleanor, with baby Hawkens expected to arrive later in March.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Camp Walter Johnson on March 16, 2024.