Joseph W. "Smoking Joe" Thibodeau Ii

Joseph W. Thibodeau II ("Smoking Joe") | April 3, 1961 – July 8, 2025 Joseph W. Thibodeau II, lovingly known as "Smoking Joe," passed away after a courageous battle with stage 4 glioblastoma on Tuesday July 8, at the age of 64. A beloved father, grandfather, partner, brother, and friend, Joe's life was defined by love, laughter, hard work, and music. Born on April 3, 1961, in Bangor, Maine, Joe grew up in Massachusetts and carried with him the values of grit, generosity, and loyalty. He studied mechanics at Keefe Technical High School, but it was in carpentry-following in his father's footsteps-that he built his lifelong career. A proud union carpenter of local union 535, Joe's hands helped shape countless homes, but it was his heart that built lasting connections with everyone he met.
Joe was known for his stubborn strength, quick wit, and a heart so big he'd give you the shirt off his back-or his last twenty dollars if you needed gas. He had a deep love for music, especially karaoke, and those who heard him sing will never forget the joy in his voice and the way he lit up a room. His signature shout of "Social!" echoed at every family gathering, and his mischievous side-like sneaking Oreos into Christmas traditions-remains one of the many ways he brought fun and laughter into everyday life. Above all, Joe loved his family.
He is survived by his life partner, Carol Mansen of Blackstone, MA; his daughters, Allison Thibodeau of Burrillville, RI, and Victoria Wilkinson and her husband Alex Wilkinson of Upton, MA; and his cherished grandchildren: Donovan, Greyson, Lyra, Benjamin, and Rylin. He is also survived by his sister, Sara Forsythe, and her husband Scott Forsythe, along with many extended family members and friends who were lucky enough to know him.
A celebration of Joe's life was held while he was still with us-a gift he was able to fully enjoy surrounded by the people who loved him most. In lieu of a formal service, his family invites you to honor Joe in the way he lived: by performing a random act of kindness or singing a karaoke song in his memory.