Joseph Michael Gorham

Joey was born in Rumford, Maine on May 25, 1949 to William and Christine “Teena” Gorham. He had the great blessing of a large, supportive, eccentric, and loving family. As the oldest of eight siblings, he was a trailblazer.

He grew up on Penobscot Street and attended St. Athanasius School and Stephens High School. He pursued higher education at Thomas More School and Assumption College. Following school, he lived in Rhode Island, Colorado, Hawaii, and Florida to collect many memories, motorcycles, and cars. He often said he enjoyed his best “retirement” when he was young. He lived a big, adventurous life before moving back to Rumford to establish his legacy by opening The Shelter Lounge at Teena’s Restaurant.

Joe became a figure of the community during his 35 years as a Bartender at The Shelter. He loved to bring people together at the Bar. Many probably have fond memories from a lively karaoke night, the famous Halloween parties, or just catching up with friends over a good drink. Still now, everyone loves reminiscing with him about their fun nights spent at the bar.

He was also proud of his years of service at The Parish of the Holy Savior, Thibault Funeral Home, and Mountain View Eyecare.

Joey was a great friend. Everyone was drawn to his larger-than-life personality. He knew how to command a room. Whether you knew him since childhood or were newly acquainted, he shared a familiarity and good-spirited banter with all. He wasn't afraid to give you a hard time either! He was a steadfast pen pal and enjoyed regular phone calls with old friends.

If you asked his siblings, they would say he was his mother’s favorite. Joey and Teena shared a special bond. They were always close at heart, and even closer in distance, when he bought the house next door to raise his children. Joe lived up to the role of eldest brother, always setting a great example of what not to do (his words)! He was so thankful for his brothers who would show up at the drop of a hat with the right tool, a helping hand, or the perfect advice. His sisters and sisters-in-law were his confidants and caretakers- constantly pampering Joey!

The Gorhams are always looking for the opportunity to celebrate together. Like Roxbury on the Fourth and at Worthley Pond for Christmas in July. At Thanksgiving, you could count on Joe for two things- delivering a sentimental grace and taste testing every dish. Christmas was spent at Teena’s house, and he said Christmas 2025 was the best one ever because three generations could celebrate together.

Joe’s proudest accomplishment was his three children. He was on the sideline at every football game, tennis match, and cheering competition. He supported their academic pursuits as a loyal study partner, praising them as “genius time.” He showed his love in the most endearing ways, like signature whistles for each kid to beckon them from across the house. In their adulthood, he called Addy every night, sent Alyssa and her kids packages of his best “What Not Shop” finds, and always had a long list of projects for Hanson’s visits home. “Dishpan Joe Joe” was a big fan of Addy’s baking and meals from the “Gourmet Chef,” Hanson. He was the best dad and cherished being Papa Joe to his grandsons, Jack and Jude.

Joe loved leisure time. His favorite place was upta camp at Roxbury Pond, holding court from the porch and counting down until sunset for a cruise on the Party Barge. His golfing career started at his father’s driving range and took him to golf courses across the East Coast. He took pride in coaching his son’s and nephew’s basketball teams. Joe was a local celebrity known for hosting Channel 7’s coverage of Oakdale C.C. Golf Tournaments and MVHS basketball games, and for being the opening voice of 96.3 The Morning Jab show. He was a parishioner of The Parish of the Holy Savior and through his strong faith reminds everyone to “Keep God in the Equation.”

Joseph is predeceased by his parents, William and Christine Gorham; his brother, John Gorham; and his sister, Katharine Symington.

Joe is survived by his siblings Bridget and Steve, Christopher and Jane, Patrick and Roxanne, Mark and Mindy, and Kelly and Kate, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is survived by his children Hanson Gorham, Addy Gorham, and Ethan Foss; and his grandchildren Jack and Jude Foss.

Joe arrived in heaven just in time to welcome his daughter, Alyssa Foss, on March 11, 2026, after her courageous and hard‑fought battle with cancer.

A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Joseph's life will be celebrated on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Holy Savior Church in Rumford. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026 from 4-7 PM at Thibault Remembrance Center 250 Penobscot Street in Rumford, 364-4366. To share memories and condolences with The Gorham Family, please visit www.thibaultremembrancecenter.com .