Columbus, OH — Tom Cosentino, 59, of Parlin, N.J. and formerly Howell and Morganville, died Nov. 30, 2021, at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

Mr. Cosentino was a Bronx native and long-time New Jersey resident. He graduated from Christopher Columbus High School and St. John’s University with a degree in sports administration.

A veteran publicist and public relations professional, he began his career in 1983 as a media relations intern with his beloved New York Yankees. From publicity director at Yonkers Raceway to working championship boxing and launching the Ted Williams Card Company, his diverse practice spanned sports and events to, later, public affairs.

He was instrumental in passage of direct shipping legislation to support New Jersey’s burgeoning wineries. That advocacy led him to his most recent position as executive director of the Garden State Wine Growers Association, where he brought regional and national attention to the award-winning work of the industry.

He welcomed sharing his decades of experience with the future of the trade, teaching as an adjunct, guest lecturing, and mentoring interns.

He was also a board member of the Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross.

His greatest achievement and source of most pride was his family.

Mr. Cosentino was a voracious reader and enjoyed nostalgia for classic cartoons and television. He was well-admired, charitable, and a great conversationalist on sports to politics and more. A good book, glass of wine, and great company were among his simple pleasures. All who knew and loved him knew the true strength of his heart.

He was uplifted by his devout Roman Catholic faith. He was an active parishioner of St. Clement Church, Matawan, for over 25 years, where he served as a Eucharistic and bereavement minister, past president of the Holy Name Society, Fourth Degree Knight, and member of the finance council.

He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Ann; son, John (Jessica) and granddaughter, Diana; son, Mark (Allison); and mother-in-law, Hilda Marotta. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Rose; brother, Frank; and sister, Geraldine.

Relatives and friends of the family are kindly invited to attend visitation Friday (Dec. 3) from 5-9 p.m. at St. Clement Church, 172 Freneau Ave., Matawan, NJ 07747. A Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday (Dec. 4) at St. Clement Church and Interment to follow at St. Gabriel Cemetery and Chapel Mausoleum, 549 County Road 520, Marlboro, N.J.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.