50 years. That’s the time Jim Irsay spent devotedly on the city of Indianapolis and the football team, the Colts. From starting off as a ballboy to becoming the G.M. and later the owner and CEO, he had seen it all, done it all. On 21st May 2025, the beloved 65-year-old legend passed away peacefully in his sleep, leaving not just the NFL community in shock, but the entire city of Indianapolis grappling with the void left behind by a man who shaped so much of its identity, on and off the field. NFL Commissioner Rob Goodell paid an emotional tribute to the titan, saying, “Jim was a friend, and a man deeply committed to his family, the game, the Colts, and the Indianapolis community.“

The news was announced by the Colts on Wednesday in a heartfelt post: “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.” And till the very end, Irsay remained true to his city and his team. Even on the day of his passing, he tweeted a message of support for the Indiana Pacers ahead of their Eastern Conference Finals game: “Go PACERS. Good luck to Herb, the entire @Pacers organization, and our city!” And nowhere else does the loss cut deeper than in his lifeblood, Indiana, and its sporting culture.

The Pacers, who narrowly eked out a 138-135 win against a robust roster of the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Playoffs, felt the ripples of his passing, too. Earlier, the team released a statement encapsulating the somber mood in the fraternity.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Jim Irsay. He was more than the owner of the Indianapolis Colts—he was a transformative figure in our city and state, a passionate advocate for the community, and someone whose generosity, vision, and spirit touched countless lives. Jim helped shape our city into the sports capital it is today, and his legacy, both on and off the field, will continue to inspire us and generations to come,” the statement from Herb Simon and his family read.

Outside of football, Irsay was a talented musician playing violin and guitar. Over the years, he built an extraordinary collection of historical and musical artifacts that he generously shared with people across the country. From over 200 guitars spanning those played by legendary artists like Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, Johnny Cash, and Prince, to Elton John’s grand piano, an enviable array of The Beatles memorabilia and Jack Kerouac’s original typescript scroll for his 1957 novel On The Road, he was a cultural afficionado. But perhaps, the biggest legacy he leaves behind is that he was the heart and soul of the city that raised him.

Jim’s legacy beyond football

Jim Irsay was far more than a football owner. He was a pillar of Indianapolis. His journey with the Colts began in 1972 when his father, Robert Irsay, acquired the team. Jim gradually took over team operations and officially became the owner in 1997. In the thirty odd years since, he transformed the franchise from a struggling organization into one of the league’s most respected, building a powerhouse around Peyton Manning, Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy, and general manager Bill Polian. 2006 was the year Indianapolis would bring home the Vince Lombardi trophy, the city’s first.

But his legacy doesn’t end with wins and trophies. Irsay’s life was layered with vulnerability, advocacy, and an unwavering desire to make a difference. He spoke openly about his battles with addiction and used his platform to champion mental health causes, spearheading the “Kicking the Stigma” initiative and donating millions to help destigmatize mental illness. It was that blend of courage and compassion that defined him—and made him beloved by so many.

Jim Irsay’s family now faces the difficult task of carrying that legacy forward. His daughters—Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson—have long been involved in the franchise, each playing different roles in shaping the team’s future. Thanks to Irsay’s thoughtful and strategic planning over the years, the transition in ownership is expected to be smooth, with his daughters poised to continue his vision.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell further echoed the sentiment of a life that went beyond football: “His courageous work in support of mental health will be a lasting legacy.” From Lucas Oil Stadium to every neighborhood touched by his giving spirit, Jim Irsay’s impact is everywhere. Mayor Joe Hogsett noted how under Irsay’s leadership, the Colts helped propel Indianapolis into “a new era of sports hosting” while also praising his many charitable efforts. “Jim’s love for Indianapolis was undeniable,” he said.

And for the many players whose lives he touched, the emotion is just as raw. Peyton Manning reflected on their bond: “He was an incredibly generous and passionate owner, and I will always be indebted to him for giving me my start in the NFL. 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.”

He wasn’t just the face of a football franchise—he was part of the city’s soul. Jim Irsay led with heart. He inspired with honesty. He gave back without asking for credit. And even now, in his absence, he continues to teach us what legacy really means.

Indianapolis won’t be the same without him. But it’s better because of him.