Jim Irsay Dies at 65: Peyton Manning Speaks Out on the Passing of the Colts Owner

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Peyton Manning has paid an emotional tribute to Jim Irsay following the Indianapolis Colts owner's death on Wednesday.

Irsay, who was rarely seen in public during the last NFL season, died in his sleep on Wednesday afternoon, the team announced.

He was in charge when the Colts won the Super Bowl against the Chicago Bears In 2007, with Manning as the quarterback, they also managed the building of their Lucas Oil Stadium.

In a heartbreaking Instagram post, Manning stated: "My heart is heavy upon hearing of Jim Irsay’s death."

He was remarkably generous and fervent as an owner, and I shall forever feel obliged to him for providing me with my beginning in the NFL. No one compared to his devotion towards both the Colts and the city of Indianapolis. The influence he had on the athletes under his guidance will remain etched in our memories.

'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'.

Tom Brady was one of those who commented on the post, typing 'RIP' along with prayer and love heart emojis.

The vocal and often contentious owner of the Colts started his journey with the team as a ball boy. He gained insight into all aspects of the organization and ultimately assumed command of the franchise.

Nevertheless, outside of his football career, Irsay struggled with severe addiction issues and personal challenges. He has three daughters with his former wife, Meg Coyle.

In a 2023 interview with HBO Sports, Irsay admitted he had been to rehab for alcoholism and painkiller addiction at least 15 times but hadn't consumed an alcoholic beverage since 2002.

Following a fall at his home in December 2023, Irsay has grown less visible.

Police officers from Carmel, Indiana attended a 911 emergency call originating from Irsay's residence. Upon arrival, they discovered he was breathing but unresponsive, with his skin appearing blue-tinged.

The document stated that Pete Ward, who has been Mr Irving’s long-time close associate and also serves as the team's chief operating officer, informed law enforcement officials of his concerns regarding Mr Irving’s health. He mentioned that according to reports from Mr Irving’s nurse, his oxygen levels were low, he was having difficulty breathing, and he appeared ‘largely’ unresponsive.

The police subsequently described the event in their report as likely being an overdose. A month later, he received a diagnosis of having a respiratory ailment.

At last year’s annual training camp news conference, Irsay informed journalists that he was still recovering from two additional operations, even though he stayed perched in his golf cart. During the recent NFL draft, Irsay refrained from speaking as he usually would.

The Colts' statement released on Wednesday stated: "It is with profound sorrow that we inform you of the passing of our cherished Owner & CEO, Jim Irsay, who departed quietly during his slumber today."

The unwavering devotion and enthusiasm Jim had for the Indianapolis Colts, along with his selflessness, dedication to the community, and above all, his deep affection for his family, stood unmatched.

Our heartfelt condolences are extended to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson, along with his whole family during this time of mourning alongside them.

'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.

Music was among Jim's greatest loves, and he found immense happiness in sharing his band and record collection with countless individuals worldwide.

'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.'

Irsay was arrested in 2014 for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, which he later claimed was because he was targeted for being 'a rich, white billionaire.'

At the time, Irsay maintained that his failure in a field sobriety test was due to recent hip surgery and not because of alcohol consumption.

In 2014, a woman who was claimed to be Irsay's mistress was discovered deceased in a townhouse that had been furnished by the billionaire. according to IndyStar.com .

Irsay’s wealth stems from the HVAC business founded by his family, along with owning the Colts—a team his deceased father acquired in Baltimore back in 1972, before relocating the squad to Indianapolis a decade later.

According to The Athletic , the oldest of Irsay's three daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, is expected to assume principal ownership duties of the Colts.

It's alleged that Irsay wanted his three daughters—Carlie, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—to collaborate as joint owners.

An X account belonging to Irsay posted a good luck message to the Indiana Pacers earlier in the day.

It stated: 'Go PACERS. Best wishes for Herb, the whole @Pacers organization, and our city!' referring to their NBA team. play the simulation game with the New York Knicks.

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