Joseph R. Allsop, Jr.

Claremont, NH – Joseph R. Allsop, Jr., 63, surrounded by family and friends, died Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in White River Junction, Vermont, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Joe was born June 22, 1962, in Springfield, Massachusetts, a son of Joseph R. and Katherine (Stoumbelis) Allsop. He grew up in Springfield and graduated from Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical High School in 1981, where he studied commercial art.

Joe enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country for thirty-three years. Due to illness, he retired in 2013 with the rank of Sergeant Major. During his military career, Joe lived in Connecticut before moving to Keene, New Hampshire, and eventually settled in Claremont, NH in 2021.

After retiring, Joe reconnected with his high-school sweetheart, Laurie McKay, and later rekindled their relationship. They were married in 2023 at their home in Claremont where they spent some of the happiest years of their lives.

Joe, aka “Tuck”, was a member of the Punisher Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club and a founding member of The Old Man of the Mountain Chapter LEMC of New Hampshire, where he served as chaplain and regional chaplain. Joe was also excited about starting his journey as a Mason. Joe was a friend of Bill, with over 34 years of sobriety. He participated in myriad charities, foundations and community programs to help his fellow humans.

Joe enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly hiking, fishing, bird watching and building gardens for Laurie. Joe relished walking his best buddy, Charley. He loved to travel and ride his Harley alone or with the Punishers. One of his favorite pastimes was attending Red Sox games with his daughter Marissa. He was a connoisseur of fine cigars and enjoyed sharing them with people he loved.

He was predeceased by his father, Joseph R. Allsop, Sr., and a brother, David Allsop.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Laurie McKay of Claremont; his mother, Katherine (Stoumbelis) Jones and stepfather, David, of Swanzey, NH; his beloved mamma, Patricia (Cardone) Allsop of West Springfield, MA; a sister, Debbie Goodrow of Holyoke, MA and a brother, John Allsop of Southwick, MA; his daughters Alexandra Dias and Marissa Webb of Enfield and Suffield, CT, respectively, and son Mathew Allsop of Claremont; a stepdaughter, Leyna McKay of Chicopee, MA; and seven grandchildren: Gianna, Brianna, Ellie May, Abby, Joey, Kaiden and Persephone.

A visitation will be held at Colonial Forastiere Funeral & Cremation in Agawam, MA on a date to be announced. A committal service will be held at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam followed by a celebration of life at Crestview Country Club in Agawam, MA, details TBD.

Knight Funeral Home has assisted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Saint Jude Children's Hospital, Wounded Warriors or the Special Olympics.