When football enthusiasts recall Jim Irsay, the image that often springs to mind is that of the charismatic, outspoken owner of the Indianapolis Colts, frequently seen with a guitar, passionately discussing football, music, or life's broader philosophies. However, what frequently remains obscured is the deeply personal narrative that shaped the man behind this public facade. One of the most pivotal chapters in his life was his marriage to Meg Coyle, a relationship that maintained a remarkable level of privacy even as Irsay's prominence within the National Football League soared to new heights.
The Private Union of Jim Irsay and Meg Coyle
Jim Irsay, who passed away in May 2025 at the age of 65 while in California, was married to Meg Coyle for several years before their divorce in 2013. Throughout this period, Irsay was intensely engaged in managing the Colts, eventually emerging as one of the league's most recognizable and influential owners. In stark contrast, Meg Coyle deliberately chose a path far removed from the limelight. She consistently avoided media attention, rarely making public appearances, and never sought the spotlight for herself, cultivating an aura of seclusion that defined her approach to life.
A Dynamic Defined by Contrast
This fundamental difference in their lifestyles characterized much of their relationship's dynamic. While Irsay's existence unfolded amidst the roaring crowds of stadiums and the glaring headlines of sports journalism, Meg focused steadfastly on family matters and preserving her privacy. After spending more than three decades together, Jim Irsay and Meg Coyle had already been living apart for years prior to the formal dissolution of their marriage. They initially separated in 2003, and following an extended period of living separately, Meg filed for divorce on November 21, 2013, officially ending their 33-year marital bond.
Shared Legacy and Family Continuity
Together, Jim Irsay and Meg Coyle raised three daughters: Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson. All three women are now deeply entrenched in the operations of the Colts organization, holding executive positions and symbolizing the future direction of the franchise. For Irsay, this familial involvement likely represents the most profound and enduring legacy of his marriage. His daughters are not merely nominal participants in the team; they are actively involved in shaping critical decisions and perpetuating the family's influential role within the NFL. Despite the divorce, the family's connections have remained robust and unwavering.
Life After Divorce and Final Days
Following his separation from Meg Coyle, Irsay did not enter into another marriage. He had openly discussed his journey of self-improvement, emphasizing his focus on recovery, mental health, and personal growth. Recently, Jim Irsay's death resurfaced in news reports after revelations that federal authorities were examining the medical care he received prior to his passing. The longtime Colts owner died with initial reports attributing his death to cardiac arrest linked to pneumonia and other health complications. While the investigation garnered national attention, officials clarified that it centered on medical practices, not the Colts organization, which stated that no team employees were contacted as part of the inquiry.
