Bridget Mary Costigan, 59, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, unexpectedly passed away on July 27, 2026.

She was a kind and devoted sister and a cherished daughter, partner, aunt, and friend to many who loved her.

Bridget was born on November 21, 1966, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Daniel and Mary Costigan. She grew up in Milwaukee and from an early age was known for her warm heart and gentle spirit. She formed close bonds with her family and friends that lasted throughout her life.

Bridget's greatest joy was her family and the people she was called to care for. She was instrumental in providing care for her parents in their later years and for her siblings, offering support and presence whenever it was needed. She also played a special role in the lives of many of her nieces and nephews during their critical formative years, guiding them with love, patience, and encouragement. On many holidays, she devoted her time to delivering meals to the sick and elderly, reflecting her deep desire to care for those who were alone or in need and to tend not only to their bodies, but to their spirits.

Bridget was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel and Mary Costigan; her brother, Thomas Costigan; and her sister, Bernadette Lustig.

She is survived by her brothers, Timothy Costigan (Ann Marie) and Patrick Costigan; her soul sister, Lisa Carabajal; her Husband and riding partner, Chris Richards; her stepson, Weston Richards (Courtney); and her step-granddaughter, Penelope Richards.

Bridget was adored by her many nephews and nieces: Carly Bunger-Costigan-Lustig (Sebastian); Sam Lustig (Grace); Sarah Lustig; Kevin Costigan (Danielle); Ryan Costigan; Christopher Costigan; and Andrew Costigan. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Margaret, and her children, Matthew Costigan (Sarah), Ian Costigan, and Sean Costigan.

She is further survived by her uncles, Patrick Costigan (Gail) and Michael Saxton (Nannie); her cousins Jill and Paul; and her cousin Renell Marquardt, all of Marinette, Wisconsin, who held a special place in her life.

Bridget graduated from St. Catherine's Grade School and Pius High School. She went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, where she earned a degree in nursing. She furthered her education, earning a master's degree and becoming a Nurse Practitioner. Bridget practiced as a Family Nurse Practitioner at the Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center, serving the Native American community. As a Type 1 diabetic herself, she offered not only medical care but also education, understanding, and compassion to those she served, bringing the same devotion to her patients that she showed to her family.

Bridget's Irish Catholic faith was a quiet but constant source of strength for her, and it shaped the way she saw and cared for others. She deeply loved her dogs and would often say that if you spelled "dog" backward, it spelled "god," a thought that reflected her belief in the unconditional love and comfort they gave. In her own way, she believed that love—whether given through a warm meal, a kind word, the companionship of a faithful dog, or a shared experience—was a way of honoring God and caring for people's souls.

She also treasured spending time at her "second home" in Door County with Chris, her husband, and her beloved dogs, where she found peace and relaxation in its beauty. She loved music and concerts, especially the Rolling Stones. She was a big Stones fan and was joyfully looking forward to what she hoped would be her 40th concert, a milestone that spoke to how much she embraced life and the things that brought her happiness. She was an avid sports fan and loved cheering for her Brewers and Packers. One of her greatest joys was her annual pilgrimage to Lambeau Field with her nephews from New York, a tradition that brought her immense happiness and created lasting memories.

As a loving wife, sister, and stepmother, she was always ready with a listening ear, a soft word of comfort, and steady support. Those who knew her will remember her kindness, quiet strength, and sense of humor, and the way she made others feel seen, loved, and welcome.

A visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Church of the Gesu, followed by a Mass and celebration of Bridget's life at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Gesu, 1145 W Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53233. All who knew and loved Bridget are welcome to attend and celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association and to the Wisconsin Humane Society – Milwaukee Campus, in honor of Bridget's commitment to caring for people living with diabetes and her lifelong love for animals.

Bridget will be remembered for her kindness, her devotion to her family, and the gentle, steady presence she offered to everyone around her. She will be deeply missed.