Joseph H. Champagne

OXFORD - Joseph Henry Champagne, affectionately known as “Dad,” “Big Joe,” and “Pépère,” was born in Auburn, Massachusetts, on July 22, 1938. He passed the way he wanted to, in his home on Cypress Street, peacefully on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the age of 88.

He was one of seven children, to his parents Henry and Rose (Thibeault) Champagne. Joe lived a life rooted in family, faith, and the simple things that brought him happiness. He was witty, kind and generous.

Joe proudly served in the United States Army as an MP and was a disabled American veteran. His service to his country was an important part of his life. Joe worked for the United States Postal Service as a Letter Carrier for many years, he fondly spoke of his route and the customers he delivered to in the West Side of Worcester, Massachusetts.

To his children, he was “Dad” or “Big Joe”. To his grandchildren, he was proudly known as “Pépère”. He leaves behind his three children, Joseph R. “Ti-Joe” Champagne and his wife Patricia of Oxford, Jean “Jeannie” Abbruzzese and her husband J.P., Jr. of Zebulon, NC, and John “Jac” Champagne and his wife Cathy of Dudley; their mother Patricia E. Champagne of Auburn; four grandchildren, John “Jacson”, Sean, Dean and his wife Autumn, and Hanna; two sisters, Ruth Dionne of Oxford and Ann Frederick of Auburn; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings; Roland, Raymond, Daniel and Alice.

Joe was a devout Roman Catholic and a longtime parishioner and Eucharist Minister of St. Roch’s Parish in Oxford. His faith remained an important part of his life.

He enjoyed the simple things like feeding the birds and squirrels, getting out for a drive, collecting coins, and visiting local family and relatives from years past. Sometimes it was those little things that made him happiest.

Joe leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will always love him. He will be missed, remembered, and forever loved.

Rest easy, Dad. We love you.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Paradis-Givner Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oxford. Burial will follow at Notre Dame Cemetery in Worcester.