ONU Law alumnus John O. Costine turns 100
Meet an Ohio Northern University’s centenarian. John O. Costine, a 1950 ONU Law graduate, turns 100 on October 16 and holds the record for being the longest continuously-practicing attorney in the state of Ohio.
In the small town of St. Clairsville, Ohio, Mr. Costine is a familiar figure, often seen walking to the courthouse in his fedora to deliver papers. A community icon, he’s known for his quiet servitude and incredible work ethic.
“My tenure is 71 years in the legal profession, the same length of time that Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne in England,” he said.
Mr. Costine doesn’t have a secret to longevity. “I just keep on going, keep on breathing, and that seems to be the technique that works.” ▶︎
His work gives him purpose and he enjoys the company of others, he added. “I am thankful for my family, my church, my community, and the practice of law.”
Born and raised in St. Clairsville, the county seat of Belmont County, Mr. Costine attended Bethany College before serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II as an officer and celestial navigator onboard a transport ship in the Pacific. After the war, Mr. Costine graduated from ONU Law. He joined his father’s law practice and married his beloved wife, Phyllis, who passed away in 2021. He and Phyllis raised three children.
The Costine family has a strong connection to ONU. Mr. Costine’s father, John E. Costine, graduated from ONU Law in 1921 and served in World War I. And Mr. Costine’s two sons both graduated from ONU Law: J. Mark Costine, JD ’79 and Eric Costine, JD ’85. Both Mark and Eric live in St. Clairsville and have had distinguished careers as judges and attorneys. Eric continues to work in the family practice.
Mr. Costine’s 100th birthday will be celebrated at his law firm, and many St. Clairsville organizations will mark his birthday as well. ONU President Melissa J. Baumann provided a congratulatory certificate on behalf of the University and the Pettit College of Law.
Mr. Costine has built an outstanding legacy; truly a life well-lived, said his daughter, Melanie (Costine) Moon. “He is very loved by many.”
Stories Posted This Week
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
- Bulldog softball upset by Delphos Jefferson
- Bulldog baseball edged by Jefferson
- Bulldog boys and girls 2nd at Bloomdale track tri-meet
- ONU classed as "lower access, higher earnings" institution
- Field reports from NW Ohio wildlife officers
- Ohio High School All-State Honors Band and the ONU Symphonic Band perform May 4
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
- William Douglas Burris worked for Rockwell International
- Beatitudes style show proves thrift can be fashionable
- Bulldog softball rallies for win vs. Falcons
- Bulldog baseball loss vs. Falcons
- Bulldogs compete in Ada JH track invitational
- Bulldog tennis loss vs. Bluffton
- Letter: The benefits of vaccinating newborns and children
Monday, April 28, 2025
- Anabel R. McBride worked for Ada Exempted Village Schools
- Trash to Treasure STEAM program on May 3
- Student entrepreneurs compete in 2025 Polar Innovation Exchange
- Lifesaving AED installed at One More gym on E. Buckeye
- St. Mark Community Meal is April 30
- Alfes wins Medalist honors at OAC golf championships
- Wilma A. Willeke worked at Ohio Northern