The world of football is mourning the tragic loss of Joe Thompson, the former Rochdale AFC midfielder, who passed away at the age of 36 following a long and courageous battle with Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma. His wife, Chantelle Thompson, confirmed his death in a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram on April 17.
Joe died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his closest family and loved ones—a setting he had chosen for his final moments. Chantelle expressed deep gratitude for the strength, love, and inspiration Joe had given to so many throughout his journey.
“He was at home where he wanted to be, in a beautiful and peaceful setting, surrounded by his family when he transitioned,” she wrote. “Joe made such an incredible impact on the lives of so many people. We are forever grateful for his presence, his strength, and for staying with us as long as he did—defying the odds time and time again.”
In her emotional tribute, Chantelle described Joe as a man who lived and fought on his own terms. “It’s been a long, hard-fought battle, and one that he faced with unwavering courage and dignity. He chose his path and walked it every step of the way with pride, drawing closer to God as he continued to offer love and support to others. He held tightly to his plans for the future, determined to leave a legacy—now, it’s time for him to rest and watch over us from above.”
Joe had expressed his wish for his funeral to be open to the public. Chantelle confirmed that anyone who felt Joe had touched their lives in any way is welcome to attend and pay their respects.
A Warrior On and Off the Pitch
Rochdale AFC, where Joe spent the majority of his footballing career, paid tribute to their former player with a statement that captured the essence of who he was—both as a footballer and as a human being.
“We first knew Joe as a talented and dedicated footballer, but we soon came to admire and cherish him for his warmth, charisma, and the strength he radiated through the most difficult times,” the club said. “He faced every challenge head-on—whether it was on the field or in his personal life. His unwavering spirit and resilience have left a lasting mark on everyone who knew his story.”
Joe Thompson began his football career in the youth ranks of Manchester United before moving to Rochdale in 2005. He made over 200 appearances in the Football League, playing for Rochdale, Tranmere Rovers, Bury, Carlisle United, and Wrexham. But his legacy goes beyond football statistics.
A Decade-Long Fight Against Cancer
Joe’s battle with cancer began in 2013, at the age of 24, when he was first diagnosed with Nodular Sclerosis Hodgkin Lymphoma—a rare form of blood cancer. After extensive treatment, he made a miraculous return to football and continued playing until 2019, when he officially retired to focus on his health and family.
He relapsed in 2017, once again undergoing aggressive treatment that included chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. Remarkably, he overcame the disease a second time and became an inspirational figure, speaking openly about his journey, mental health, and the importance of resilience. He even penned a memoir titled Darkness and Light: My Story, which offered an honest account of his life both on and off the pitch.
In April 2024, Joe shared publicly that his cancer had returned for a third time—this time more aggressively. Chemotherapy was no longer effective, and doctors informed him that treatment options were limited. At that point, Joe and Chantelle made the conscious decision to step away from conventional medical treatment. In January, Chantelle revealed they had chosen to “strip back the holistic supplements” and embrace a more spiritual and emotional journey, spending meaningful time together as a family.
Honoring Joe’s Legacy
Joe Thompson leaves behind a powerful legacy—not just as a footballer but as a symbol of hope, determination, and humanity. His story has inspired thousands, including those battling serious illnesses, aspiring athletes, and supporters of mental health awareness.
Beyond the football field, Joe also worked as a motivational speaker and BBC sports commentator, using his platform to advocate for cancer awareness, resilience, and personal growth. His authenticity and compassion made him a beloved figure not only within the football community but also among people from all walks of life.
In her tribute, Chantelle emphasized Joe’s enduring love for his family and his desire to uplift others. “Joe was more than just a footballer—he was a father, a husband, a fighter, and a light to many. He wanted to create lasting change, and through his story, he has.”
Joe Thompson is survived by his wife Chantelle and their daughter, along with a vast extended family, friends, former teammates, and countless supporters whose lives were touched by his remarkable journey.
An open funeral service is being arranged, and details will be shared publicly to allow all who knew him—or were inspired by him—a chance to celebrate his life and legacy.
Joe Thompson Biography
Full Name: Joseph Thompson
Date of Birth: March 5, 1989
Date of Death: April 17, 2025
Age at Death: 36
Place of Birth: Rochdale, England
Nationality: British
Profession: Professional Footballer, Motivational Speaker, Author
Position: Midfielder
Clubs: Rochdale AFC, Tranmere Rovers, Bury, Carlisle United, Wrexham
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Joe Thompson was born and raised in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, where his passion for football began at a young age. He joined Manchester United’s youth academy as a boy, gaining early exposure to elite-level football. However, it was at Rochdale AFC where his professional career truly took shape.
Thompson made his professional debut for Rochdale in 2005, becoming a fan favorite for his work ethic, skill, and determination on the pitch. He went on to represent several clubs in the English Football League, including Tranmere Rovers, Bury, Carlisle United, and Wrexham.
Career Highlights
- Professional Debut: Rochdale AFC, 2005
- Over 200 Career Appearances in the English Football League
- Key Midfielder: Known for versatility, passing, and leadership
- Clubs Represented:
- Rochdale (two spells)
- Tranmere Rovers
- Bury
- Carlisle United
- Wrexham
Joe’s footballing career spanned over a decade. He made significant contributions to his teams and remained a well-respected player throughout the Football League.
Health Battles and Personal Triumphs
In 2013, at the age of 24, Joe was diagnosed with Nodular Sclerosis Hodgkin Lymphoma, a rare form of blood cancer. After undergoing intensive treatment, he remarkably returned to professional football, making a triumphant comeback.
In 2017, cancer returned for a second time. Once again, Joe underwent chemotherapy and stem cell transplant therapy. He beat the disease again and continued to share his journey, emerging as a powerful voice for resilience and mental strength.
In April 2024, Joe revealed that his cancer had returned for a third time—this time at Stage 4. Despite limited treatment options, Joe chose to face his final chapter with faith, courage, and time spent with his family.
Off the Pitch: Motivator, Author, and Advocate
After retiring from football in 2019, Joe became a motivational speaker and BBC sports commentator. He shared his life story in his acclaimed book “Darkness and Light: My Story”, where he detailed his fight against cancer and his journey through adversity, faith, and personal growth.
Joe also became a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and cancer support, inspiring thousands with his openness, authenticity, and resilience.
Personal Life
Joe was married to Chantelle Thompson, with whom he had a daughter. The couple faced every challenge together, and their love and strength were evident throughout Joe’s public journey. Chantelle was by his side through each battle, offering unwavering support and documenting their emotional and spiritual healing in Joe’s final months.
Death and Legacy
Joe Thompson passed away on April 17, 2025, at the age of 36, at home and surrounded by his family. His death followed a third, courageous fight against Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma. His wife announced that he wished for an open funeral, inviting anyone whose life he touched to celebrate his legacy.
Rochdale AFC and the wider football community paid tribute to Joe as not just a talented player, but a remarkable human being whose strength in adversity inspired countless lives.
Legacy
Joe Thompson’s legacy lives on through:
- His inspirational life story and book
- His public advocacy for cancer awareness and mental health
- His influence on young athletes and fans
- His faith-driven message of hope, courage, and authenticity
Joe Thompson will be remembered not only as a footballer but as a warrior, role model, and beacon of hope. His story will continue to uplift and inspire for generations to come.
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