Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay dies at 65

 

INDIANAPOLIS -- Colts owner Jim Irsay, who had led the team since 1997 and presided over one of the storied franchise's greatest eras, died Wednesday. He was 65. "We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon," Colts chief operating officer Pete Ward said in a statement released by the team. "Jim's dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for his family were unsurpassed." Irsay is survived by his daughters Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson; his ex-wife and his daughters' mother, Meg Coyle; and 10 grandchildren. Irsay-Gordon, his eldest daughter, is seen as the most involved in team operations and took her father's place during his NFL suspension in 2014 after his DWI arrest.

"We were deeply saddened to learn of Jim Irsay's passing today. Jim was a friend, and a man deeply committed to his family, the game, the Colts, and the Indianapolis community," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. "He led with integrity, passion and care for the Colts' players, coaches and staff, and his courageous work in support of mental health will be a lasting legacy. ... On behalf of the entire NFL, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Jim's daughters and their families, and to his many friends throughout the NFL."