Joe Thompson’s family is mourning a tremendous loss.
The former Rochdale soccer star has died following his third battle with Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma, his wife Chantell Thompson confirmed. He was 36.
“He was at home where he wanted to be in a beautiful peaceful setting surrounding by his family when he transitioned,” she wrote on Instagram April 17. “Joe has made such an impact on so many people and we are all forever grateful for him blessing us with his presence and for being so strong and staying with us as long as he did against all the odds.”
“It’s been a long battle, and one that he fought with all his might and he did things HIS way,” she continued. “He chose his path and walked every step with courage and pride growing closer and closer to god each day whilst still being there for so many others. He held on to his plans for the future to continue that legacy, but it’s now time for him to rest up and watch over us from heaven.”
Chantelle shared that the BBC sports commentator “wanted an open funeral so everyone who feels that Joe in any way made an impact to their life’s and wishes to attend can do so.”
His former club also expressed their grief after his death, writing in a statement, “Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
“We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality,” Rochdale’s statement said. “He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch. His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story.”
Joe was first diagnosed with Nodular Sclerosis Hodgkin Lymphoma, a blood cancer, at age 24 in 2013. He was cancer-free until 2017. After relapsing again in April 2024, he shared that the chemotherapy treatments were no longer working.
The couple decided to spend time with one another amid his diagnosis with Chantelle writing in January, “We walked away from conventional cancer treatment, stripped back the holistic supplements and chose to embark on a true healing journey.”