James Todd Hirst

Fitchburg -- James Todd Hirst (“Todd”), 91, of Fitchburg, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at Heywood Hospital. Born in Fitchburg on January 9, 1935, Todd was the son of the late Edward and Florence (Tipton) Hirst. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy, proudly serving his country during the Korean War until his honorable discharge. Upon returning home, Todd worked for The No. 8 Paper Mill and Wang Laboratories, subsequently serving as the caretaker of Sacred Heart Daycare and Church - fixing countless broken toys and reading to the students who affectionately coined him “Mr. Apple Todd.” Todd’s family was the most important aspect of his life, underscored by a special love and complete adoration for his beloved wife, Madeline. The two enjoyed exploring coastal Maine, hosting family gatherings, and volunteering at their church. With his children and grandchildren, Todd enjoyed watching and talking (complaining) about the Red Sox, serving (reluctantly) as a makeup and hair model, and fishing. He is survived by his two children Carol Davenport and her husband Jim of Fitchburg, Jim Hirst and his wife Patti of Leominster; grandchildren, Rebecca Paquette and husband Nick, Bethany St. Cyr and husband Shawn, Mariah Kelley and husband Jamison, Josiah Benoit and wife Carissa, Anthony Hirst and Maggie Rodgers, Abigail Elliott and husband Lucas; great grandchildren, Jacob and Emma Paquette, Payton and Logan St. Cyr, and Grace Elliott; many nieces and nephews, including Susan Gooley and her husband Brian of Winchendon. Todd was predeceased by his beloved wife Madeline (Cummings) Hirst in 2014. Calling hours will be held in the Isabelle & Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon St., Fitchburg on Monday, January 19th from 4-7 p.m. The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 20th in Saint Joseph Church, 49 Woodland St., Fitchburg at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Saint Bernard’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 510 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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James Todd Hirst

January 9, 1935 - January 13, 2026