Overview

• Joe Thompson, known for his resilience on and off the field, died on April 17, 2025, at home with his family after battling cancer for the third time.
• The former midfielder, who played over 200 games for Rochdale, was first diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 and overcame two recurrences before retiring in 2019.
• Thompson's career-defining moment came in 2018 when he scored the goal that secured Rochdale's League One survival, cementing his legacy at the club.
• Post-retirement, he became a motivational speaker, soccer pundit, and ambassador for Manchester United, inspiring others with his story of perseverance.
• Rochdale players wore black armbands and held a moment of applause during their April 18 match to honor Thompson, who is survived by his wife Chantelle and two daughters.