Obituary
Brad Thomas Cost, 73, of The Villages, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Born in Pittsburgh, PA, on June 5, 1952, to Joseph and Ruth (Schmidt) Cost, Brad graduated from South Hills High School and completed an apprenticeship with Kashier Brothers for musical instrument repair. He married his high school sweetheart, Gaye (Descaunets) Cost, in 1980.
Brad worked for the Pittsburgh Public Schools for 36 years in the music department as a violin maker, repairing instruments, managing supplies, and coordinating performance equipment. Earlier in life, he was also an entrepreneur, owning Costa’s Pizza in Dormont and Sergio’s Restaurant in Beechview.
A self-taught musician, Brad played multiple instruments simply for the joy of mastering new skills. Beyond his musical expertise, he earned a commercial pilot’s license, that allowed he and Gaye to enjoy flights to various destinations.
A lifelong learner and adventurer, Brad loved challenges and sports. He was an avid skier, an early medalist swimmer, and a talented mechanic who built motorcycles, repaired cars, and could fix or build nearly anything. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend who shared decades of love, laughter, and joy with all who knew him.
As a proud Mason, Shriner, and American Legion member, Brad supported numerous charitable causes—especially those aiding children and veterans.
Brad is survived by his wife Gaye; son Joseph Cost; daughter Christina (Cost) Mort and husband Philip Mort; three grandchildren, Layla, Lacey, and Lyvia Bradley Mort; sister Carol (Cost) Moss and husband Michael Moss; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Robert (Bob) Cost.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, Tunnels to Towers, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—organizations that Brad and Gaye faithfully supported.
He was such a huge presence, literally bigger than life and with the gentlest spirit and kindest heart.
My love and condolences to Gaye, Joseph and Christina and the rest of the Cost family.