Joe Thompson, the former Rochdale midfielder, has sadly passed away at the age of 36 after a courageous third battle with cancer.
Thompson was diagnosed for the third time in April 2024 with stage four lymphoma, a form of blood cancer that had spread to his lungs. He had previously beaten cancer in both 2014 and 2017.
Rochdale AFC confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement on Friday morning, saying Thompson “passed away peacefully at home on Thursday with his family by his side.”
“Rochdale Football Club is devastated to learn of the passing of Joe Thompson,” the statement read. “Joe, who had been bravely battling cancer for a third time, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, with his family by his side.”
Affectionately known as ‘Joey T’, Thompson made over 200 appearances for his hometown club, earning admiration both on and off the pitch.
“We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality,” the club added. “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.”
“Above all of that, Joe was a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae. Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
Thompson played his final professional match on August 4, 2018, in a 2-1 win over Burton Albion. After pushing his body to the limit following his previous battles with cancer, he announced his retirement in 2019, having played just once that season.
Over the course of his career, Thompson made 225 professional appearances, mostly with Rochdale, and also featured for Tranmere Rovers, Carlisle United, and in Manchester United’s youth ranks.
