James A. Todd

  Those who knew him never thought the events of February 12, 2022, would have ever come to pass.  Yet Al Todd, a man who out-smarted death for decades, passed through death and into Eternal Life at St. Luke’s Hospital, Bethlehem Pa. on that day.

  Always the consummate gentleman with the appearance of stable tradition, Al was far from typical; which is reflected in this non- typical obituary; that endeavors to provide a small glimpse into the 75 years of this special man’s life. 

  True to form, the circumstances surrounding his illnesses with which Al was plagued, were not typical, and were further complicated by overcrowding in local hospitals, due to the pandemic, requiring Al to receive treatment far away from his beloved home in Mahanoy City Pa.
  If the notion of there being no room for him, coupled with a place called Bethlehem, sound like facts linked with Christianity, it would be no wonder; as Al was a strong Christian warrior who fought to lead a remarkable number of souls to Christ. 
  As co-owner and publisher of a Christian newspaper, circulated to thousands of readers in Schuylkill County, THE NORTHERN REGIONAL TIMES, and in addition to spiritual pilgrimages he hosted to Emmitsburg, Maryland, and his Christian book publishing company, Al’s efforts brought the love of God to countless souls.

  He was expertly qualified for the technical aspects of his ministry through over 30 years of experience in the newspaper world, working for such prestigious organizations as USA Today and the New York Times.  However, his most memorable and rewarding experiences in that genre occurred during his time as Marketing Director at THE POTTSVILLE REPUBLICAN, Pottsville Pa.

   Yet, with all his many newspaper awards, achievements, and accomplishments, Al was not defined by his career, but by his love of God, family, and country.  

  Al was a Vietnam Veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy from 1966 -1970, in Fleet Air Reconnaissance, VQ4, Naval Air, with missions based from DaNang, Vietnam.  Despite great life long suffering, caused by Agent Orange exposure, it was no secret this man would have served his country again in a heartbeat. 
    He is survived by his loving wife, Nikki, and the children of their blended family; Joseph Ciarvella, wife Kim, and two children Ava, and Rosa; and eldest daughter Alyssa Heintzelman, and her three children, Mia, Sophia, and Mateo; also Angel Ciarvella Dugan and her husband Brian Dugan and children Paige and Brian.  Al is preceded in death by his parents and two younger brothers.

  A private family service will be held with a military service at Fort Indiantown Gap slated for the late spring of 2022.

Please send condolences to David D. Jarrett Funeral Home, Mahanoy City Pa, at www.jarrettfuneralhome.com

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