Joe ThompsonThe former Rochdale AFC midfielder passed away on April 17, 2025 at the age of 36. His wife, Chantel Thompsonthe next day, I checked the news in a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram.
“The words I thought I wouldn’t have to write… Our brave and courageous Joey passed away early on Thursday morning,” she wrote. “Joe has had this impact on so many people. We are forever grateful for him for blessing us with his presence and for being with us as long as he is against all possibilities.”
The Rochdale AFC also issued a statement expressing their heartbreak, writing that the club was “devastated” to learn of Thompson’s death.
Learn more about the soccer player, his battle with cancer, and the family he leaves behind in the news.
Who was Joe Thompson?
Thompson was born in Bath, England and joined Manchester United’s academy at just nine years old. During his professional soccer career, he played for several clubs, including Tranmere Rovers, Carlisle United, Southport and Bury, and eventually finished his playing day at Rochdale.
Thompson has made over 200 appearances in the English Football League and has broadly respected his resilience and determination on and off the field. He retired from soccer in 2019 at the age of 29. After retirement, Thompson became a motivational speaker, life coach, media critic and served as ambassador for Manchester United.
What kind of cancer did Joe Thompson have?
Thompson was diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a rare hematologic cancer that affects the lymphatic system. He was first diagnosed in 2013 at the age of 23. After completing chemotherapy and entering remission, he made an incredible return to professional soccer.
About three years later, Thompson faced a second diagnosis, but was treated again and returned to the pitch. He eventually retired in 2019, and later shared that he “pushed his body to the limit.”
In April 2024, Thompson received his third diagnosis – this time four stage 4 lymphoma – he continued to fight until his death in April 2025.
Who was Joe Thompson’s wife?
The athlete married Chantelle, whom he married in 2016. According to her social media, she is an entrepreneur and founded a holistic school in the UK.
Did Joe Thompson have children?
Yes, Thompson had a wife and two daughters. Thailula Lily and Athena Ray.
