Meet 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.”