John Todd Obituary

John Alan Todd, Jr., age 63, passed away unexpectedly on January 1, 2026, in Hua Hin, Thailand. Born on June 13, 1962, John lived a life filled with curiosity, kindness, and a genuine love for the people around him.

John grew up with a deep appreciation for learning, a trait that shaped every season of his life. A proud graduate of The Marist School and Clemson University, with a degree in Chemical Engineering, he carried his enthusiasm for knowledge into a remarkable career in the restaurant industry. John served in many leadership roles, including Vice President of Construction & Design and later Senior Vice President of Development at RTM Restaurant Group. He went on to serve as Chief Development Officer at Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc., His vision and leadership led to the opening of more than 512 corporate and franchise locations. His journey continued at Fiesta Restaurant Group in Dallas, Texas, where he played a key role in driving the physical expansion and development for the Pollo Tropical and Taco Cabana brands, with combined 350 locations in six states and franchised locations throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. He later shared his expertise with Cici's Pizza and Scooter's Coffee until his retirement in 2021. His rare gift for both construction and deal negotiation made him a trusted leader and mentor to many in his industry.

Faith and community were important parts of John's life. He grew up at Chamblee United Methodist Church and, in later years, was a member of Johns Creek United Methodist Church. He cherished being part of Bible Study and forming deep connections rooted in faith and fellowship.

John will always be remembered for his gentle heart. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, someone who listened fully, offered wise and patient guidance, and never hesitated to show kindness. John had a special way of making others feel seen and supported.

He was also an enthusiastic explorer of the world, a passion he shared with his sons. John traveled to nearly every U.S. state and countless countries, always eager for a new experience or a beautiful place to discover. He enjoyed skiing, golf, college sports - especially his Clemson Tigers, along with watching MMA events, listening to music, and cooking. He was dedicated to health and wellness, and indulging his insatiable appetite for reading and learning new things.

John is survived by his wife, Krisana Todd; his children, Anna Todd, Alexander Todd (Sydney), and Eric Todd; his father, John Alan Todd, Sr.; his sister, Courtney Nathanson (Barry); his brother, James Todd (Laura); and his nieces and nephews-Hope, Ellen, Sarah, and Benjamin. He is preceded in death by his mother, Glenn Courtney Todd.

A memorial service will be held January 27th in Hua Hin, Thailand; a separate service will be held in Atlanta announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF) (Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF)) in honor of John's son, Eric, who lives with Type 1 diabetes.

John's legacy, his warmth, wisdom, generosity, and endless curiosity, will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.