On Wednesday, Indianapolis sports fans were dealt some unfortunate news regarding Jim Irsay, the longtime owner of the Indianapolis Colts, who passed away at the age of 65 on Wednesday afternoon.
In a post on X, the Colts’ social media team informed fans of the news, detailing that Irsay passed away in his sleep on Wednesday.
“We are devastated to announce our beloved Owner and CEO, Jim Irsay, passed away peacefully in his sleep this afternoon. Jim’s dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts, in addition to the 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.
“Some of Jim’s fondest memories came from his youth working training camps on 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. 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.”
pic.twitter.com/TZg4kMpdAj
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) May 21, 2025
As this post from the Colts social media team alluded to, Irsay supported any and all sports in Indianapolis, which is proved by his final post on social media earlier on Wednesday before his passing, wishing Indiana Pacers owner Herb Simon luck prior to the team’s Game 1 matchup on Wednesday night in their Eastern Conference Finals matchup against the New York Knicks.
“Go PACERS,” wrote Irsay. “Good luck to Herb, the entire Pacers organization, and our city!”
Go PACERS. Good luck to Herb, the entire @Pacers organization, and our city! 💪❤️
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) May 21, 2025
Irsay was a lifer in the world of football, first working under his father, former Colts owner Robert Irsay, before taking over the ownership role after his father’s passing in 1997.
While Irsay had his share of controversies, he also ultimately accomplished his goal of doing good in the world, notably advocating for mental health and substance abuse awareness through his “Kicking the Stigma” initiative.
Naturally, many media members who have either worked closely with the Colts organization, or simply admired Irsay from afar, took to social media to share some kind words in light of his passing.
“The last time#Colts owner Jim Irsay spoke to the local media about the state of his team was in July 2024. As always, he was excited and optimistic,” wrote James Boyd, who covers the Colts for The Athletic.
The last time #Colts owner Jim Irsay spoke to the local media about the state of his team was in July 2024.
As always, he was excited and optimistic.
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) May 21, 2025
“Recapping the life of one of the most interesting men I’ve ever met: James Irsay. Rest in peace,” wrote Stephen Holder, who covers the Colts for ESPN and wrote a very touching piece for the network on Irsay’s legacy as an owner.
Recapping the life of one of the most interesting men I’ve ever met: James Irsay.
Rest in peace. https://t.co/qd0nl4Nzp7
— Stephen Holder (@HolderStephen) May 22, 2025
“When many NFL team owners would fake phone calls to dodge media at league meetings, Jim Irsay was one of the very few who would make himself available for any topic you desired,” wrote Jonathan Jones, the lead NFL insider for CBS Sports. “RIP to one of the NFL’s most original men.”
When many NFL team owners would fake phone calls to dodge media at league meetings, Jim Irsay was one of very few who would make himself available for any topic you desired. RIP to one of the NFL’s most original men.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) May 22, 2025
“What an energetic, generous and full life he lived,” wrote Nate Akins, who covers the Colts for IndyStar.
Here’s our obituary on the death of Colts owner Jim Irsay, from @JoelAErickson.
What an energetic, generous and full life he lived: https://t.co/KlDZUPEIIR
— Nate Atkins (@NateAtkins_) May 22, 2025