It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the news of the untimely passing of Todd Morici, Jr., a proud Montclair Kimberley Academy lifer and a cherished member of the Clifton, New Jersey community. Todd, class of ’13, tragically lost his life in a skateboarding accident—a loss that has profoundly impacted everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His boundless sense of humor, athletic prowess, and warm, generous personality made him a beacon of joy and kindness, qualities that will forever live on in the memories of his family, friends, classmates, and community members. In the midst of this tragic loss, Todd’s family has asked for support and has shared important details regarding the memorial arrangements.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
Todd Morici, Jr. was not only a student at Montclair Kimberley Academy but was also recognized as a true “MKA lifer.” Throughout his time at the academy, Todd embraced every opportunity to excel academically, participate in extracurricular activities, and leave a positive mark on his peers. His infectious smile and light-hearted personality made him well-loved by both students and faculty. For many of his classmates, Todd was more than just a friend; he was a source of laughter and a living reminder that genuine kindness can turn ordinary moments into treasured memories.
The school’s community has always celebrated Todd’s humor and energy. Whether he was rallying his friends with his witty quips or lending a sympathetic ear when someone needed it most, Todd’s impact extended far beyond the school walls. His legacy as a Montclair Kimberley Academy lifer is not defined solely by the years he spent within the hallowed halls of MKA, but also by the spirit and values he carried with him—a spirit that continues to inspire his peers, alumni, and the entire community.
Todd’s love for skateboarding was well-known among those who knew him. He combined his passion for the sport with a fearless embrace of life, always eager to explore new challenges and push boundaries. His skateboard was more than just a mode of transportation—it was an extension of his free-spirited nature and athletic skill. Tragically, it was during one of these exhilarating rides that fate intervened. In an unfortunate skateboarding accident, Todd’s vibrant life was cut short, leaving his community in shock and mourning.
Beyond his athleticism, what truly set Todd apart was his unwavering commitment to helping others. His classmate and close friend, Rob Pannullo ’13, encapsulated this sentiment when he said, “Todd was a source of laughter and a smile to everyone he met — he was a jokester, a fantastic athlete, and an incredible friend who always wanted to help other people.” Todd’s generosity was evident not only in the way he interacted with his peers but also in his selfless decision to donate his organs. In an act that speaks volumes about his character, Todd’s organs are set to save the lives of eight people in desperate need, ensuring that even in death he will continue to be a hero for others.
For those who knew Todd, his energy was contagious. His laughter would brighten the darkest days and his jokes brought joy wherever he went. Every conversation with him felt like a reminder to live life with passion, humor, and an open heart. Todd’s ability to lift the spirits of those around him was matched only by his willingness to lend support when his help was needed most. His natural charm and kindness enabled him to forge deep connections with people from all walks of life, making him a beloved figure in Clifton, NJ.
Family and friends remember Todd as a person who put others first. Despite facing the inevitable challenges of growing up, he consistently went out of his way to ensure that everyone in his orbit felt supported and valued. His vibrant personality and his commitment to making the world a better place, even through small acts of kindness, left an indelible impact on the lives he touched. Todd’s ability to find humor in life and to share that joy with others will be deeply missed, but it lives on in the countless memories and stories that are now part of his enduring legacy.
Todd’s passing is not only a personal loss to his family and friends but also to the broader Clifton community and the Montclair Kimberley Academy family. In light of this tragic loss, his mother has requested that the word be spread about the upcoming memorial arrangements to allow those who wish to pay their respects a chance to celebrate Todd’s life.
The arrangements are as follows:
Sunday, April 13, 2025: A visitation will be held from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at Marrocco Memorial Chapel located at 470 Colfax Avenue, Clifton, NJ. This will provide family, friends, classmates, and community members the opportunity to gather, reflect, and share memories of Todd.
Monday, April 14, 2025: A funeral mass will be held at Saint Philip The Apostle Parish at 797 Valley Road, Clifton, NJ, starting at 10:00 AM. The service will be followed by a repast where attendees can continue to celebrate Todd’s life and find comfort in their shared loss.
These arrangements have been made with the hope that everyone whose life was touched by Todd can come together to honor his memory and support one another during this incredibly difficult time.
One of the most moving aspects of Todd’s life was his selfless decision to donate his organs. This act of charity ensures that even in his final moments, Todd was working to help others. His organ donation will potentially save the lives of eight individuals, and in doing so, Todd has left behind a legacy of hope and compassion. His willingness to make such a sacrifice is a powerful testament to the kind of person he was—someone who put the welfare of others above his own needs. This extraordinary gift will forever serve as a symbol of his enduring kindness and his commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Todd’s time at Montclair Kimberley Academy helped shape the man he became. For his peers and the faculty, he was a constant reminder of the importance of living authentically and supporting one another. His legacy as an MKA lifer is a beacon for future generations of students who will learn not only from his academic achievements but also from his genuine character and the principles he lived by.
Alumni and current students have taken to social media, sharing stories of Todd’s misadventures on his skateboard, his hearty laughter during class gatherings, and his many acts of kindness. These stories paint a picture of a young man who was both fiercely independent and incredibly compassionate—a rare combination that left a lasting mark on everyone he encountered.
While the loss of Todd Morici, Jr. is profound, it is also met with gratitude for the memories he has left behind. His life, though tragically short, was rich with experiences and marked by a generosity of spirit that made everyone around him feel special. As the community comes together to mourn his passing and celebrate his life, there is a collective understanding that Todd’s legacy will live on in every life he touched.
Community leaders in Clifton and members of the Montclair Kimberley Academy family continue to express their heartfelt condolences to his family. They recognize that Todd’s story is not only one of tragic loss but also of inspiration—an inspiration to live boldly, laugh often, and help others without hesitation. His spirit will undoubtedly continue to guide those who had the privilege of knowing him and will serve as a lasting reminder of what it means to truly give of oneself.
As we reflect on the life of Todd Morici, Jr., we are reminded that the true measure of a person is not in the brevity of their time on this earth but in the lasting impact of their kindness and generosity. Todd’s decision to donate his organs, his willingness to share laughter in even the most challenging times, and his ever-present commitment to his friends, family, and community are what will continue to inspire us as we move forward.
In the wake of such a heartbreaking loss, it is natural to feel sorrow and regret. Yet, in remembering Todd, we also celebrate the vibrancy of a life fully lived—a life that, despite its untimely end, enriched the lives of others in immeasurable ways. Every act of kindness, every shared smile, and every moment of genuine connection is a tribute to Todd’s legacy.
Todd Morici, Jr.’s passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by the Clifton community and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy, characterized by his infectious humor, athletic spirit, and unfailing commitment to helping others, will live on in the stories we share and the lives he helped transform. As we gather at Marrocco Memorial Chapel and Saint Philip The Apostle Parish to honor his memory, let us also pledge to carry forward his example of kindness and selflessness.
To Todd’s family, friends, and the entire Montclair Kimberley Academy community: we stand with you in grief, and we celebrate the indelible mark Todd has left on our hearts. His life was a testament to the power of laughter, the importance of community, and the enduring impact of generosity.
Rest in peace, Todd Morici, Jr. Your journey has ended, but your legacy—and the smiles you brought to so many—will forever remain. We will remember you as a hero, a friend, and a shining light in our community, and we promise to honor your memory every day of our lives.
