Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay Dead at 65

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay has died at the age of 65.

The NFL team broke the news via its social media accounts late Wednesday, May 21, sharing that Irsay died “peacefully in his sleep this afternoon.”

“We are devastated to announce our beloved owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon,” said the statement. “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. Our deepest sympathies go to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and his entire family as we grieve with them.”

The statement continued: “Some of Jim’s fondest memories came from his youth working training camps in Baltimore and growing relationships with players, coaches, and staff whom he considered his extended family. He worked in every department before he was named the youngest general manager in team history in 1984 when the Colts arrived in Indianapolis. After he took sole ownership in 1997, he led the Colts to a long series of division titles and brought the city its first Super Bowl Championship.”

“Jim’s love and appreciation for the NFL, in addition to its history, tradition, and principles, influenced him to become a steward of the game throughout his 50-plus years in the League. Jim’s generosity can be felt all over Indianapolis, the state of Indiana and the country. He made philanthropy a daily endeavor. He never hesitated to help countless organizations and individuals live better lives,” the Colts added. “Music was one of Jim’s passions and the ability to share his band and collection with millions of people across the world brought him tremendous joy. Simply put, he wanted to make the world a better place and that philosophy never wavered.”

“Jim will be deeply missed by his family, the Colts organization, and fans everywhere, but we remain inspired by his caring and unique spirit,” the statement concluded.

Irsay was the principal owner and chairman of the Colts from 1997 until his death after inheriting the team from his father, Robert Irsay, who died in 1997.

Under his watch, the Colts advanced to two Super Bowls and won Super Bowl XLI in 2007.

Colts icon Peyton Manning was among the first people to mourn Irsay’s death. “I am heartbroken to hear about Jim Irsay’s passing. He was an incredibly generous and passionate owner and I will always be indebted to him for giving me my start in the NFL,” the retired quarterback shared via Instagram late Wednesday. “His love for the Colts and the city of Indy was unmatched. His impact on the players who played for him will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone in the Colts community. He will be missed. Jim, rest in peace my friend, #18.”

Irsay is survived by his ex-wife, Meg, his three daughters, Carley, Casey and Kalen, and his 10 grandchildren.