Joseph D. Thompson

LEICESTER – Joseph D. Thompson, 69, of Leicester, died unexpectedly on Thursday, August 26, 2021 at St. Vincent Hospital. 

He leaves his loving wife, Marion M. (Jennette) Thompson; three sons, Duane Hathaway of Kentucky, Nathan Thompson of Massachusetts, Joe Thompson Jr of Massachusetts; three daughters, Heidi Olivo of Massachusetts, Selina Thompson of Massachusetts, and Stephanie Koetje of Washington.  Grandchildren left behind include: Corbin, Holden and Haven Hathaway, Dominic, Grace and Vincent Olivo, Jeremy Rawson, Elijah Thompson, and Rachel and Hannah Laythe.  He is remembered with love by Matthew Palermo, Becky Thompson and Bob Harris.  Joseph is predeceased by a son, Erik Thompson and a granddaughter, Cassandra Thompson.  He was born in Worcester, son of Rose and Billie Thompson.

Joseph was a carpenter for many years.  He was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous – was sober 30 years and lead hundreds of others to sobriety.  He helped found and organize the Sober in the Sun annual camping retreat. He enjoyed playing with his grandchildren, carpentry, AA-related activities and taking care of his wife!

Thousands of children also knew him as Santa. He grew his beard long each year for this purpose.  He was Santa at Hebert’s Candy, Leicester Christmas Display, and many other places.

There will be a service at Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, Sutton, MA on Thursday, September 2nd at 6pm.  There are no calling hours.  Arrangements are in the care of Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave, Worcester.