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BORN
1929
DIED
2015
Ann Mara Obituary
Giants co-owner John Mara announced his mother's death on Super Bowl Sunday. Ann Mara slipped in front of her home in Rye, New York, during an ice storm two weeks ago and was hospitalized with a head injury the following day. While there were initial hopes for recovery, John Mara said, complications developed and she died early Sunday surrounded by her family.
Ann Mara and her children owned 50 percent of the Giants, one of the founding families of the league, since the death of her husband, Hall of Famer Wellington Mara, in 2005. While she was not active in daily operations, her opinion was valued greatly.
"Mrs. Mara was a tower of strength, dignity and inspiration for her family and all of us in the NFL," Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement. "Her family and the Giants organization have always reflected Mrs. Mara's competitive spirit, integrity, and wonderful sense of humor. Our thoughts and prayers are with John Mara and the entire Mara family."
Ann Mara was a prominent philanthropist who supported educational organizations. Mara also helped children with cancer through the Ronald McDonald House of New York. In November, she dedicated the opening of a new building for the San Miguel Academy for children at risk, which was built through the NFL Snowflake Foundation.
Three days before MetLife Stadium — the home of the Giants and Jets — was the site of the Super Bowl last year, Ann Mara received the Paul J. Tagliabue Award of Excellence. It is presented to a league or team executive who demonstrates the integrity and leadership that he exhibited in career development opportunities for minority candidates and advocacy for diversity on the league and club level when he was NFL commissioner.
"She has been the leader of our family in every way, and we will miss her dearly," John Mara said.
Married to Wellington Mara in 1954 after a chance meeting in a Roman Catholic church, Ann Mara attended almost every Giants home and away game. She was a fierce defender of the team.
After the Giants beat the San Francisco 49ers in the 2011 NFC Championship game en route to their fourth Super Bowl title, she approached Fox broadcaster and Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw, poking his arm to get his attention.
"You never pick the Giants," Ann Mara said.
Bradshaw turned toward the camera and said, "I know. I know. I'm sorry. I'm getting hammered for not picking the Giants."
Ann Mara, sometimes referred to as "The First Lady of Football," also let her sons know how she felt. Three of them work in the Giants' front office. Along with John, Chris is the senior vice president of player evaluation and Frank is the vice president of community relations.
She used to like to remind John Mara that "you're an employee.'"
When the Giants missed the playoffs for the third consecutive year this past season, John Mara, who serves as president and chief executive, was asked how his mother felt.
"She is not very happy with me right now, believe me," John Mara said. "She suffers through this probably even more so than I do. I am on notice as well."
Current and former Giants players reacted to the death on social media.
"Rest in Peace Mrs. Mara. My prayers also for The Mara family. What a great woman!!!!" wrote current Oakland Raiders defensive end Justin Tuck, a member of the 2008 and 2012 Giants Super Bowl champions.
Giants safety Antrel Rolle called Ann Mara an angel and a blessing in his five years with the team. "I absolutely love this woman! She had a smile that would brighten anyone's day. She was our fighter & backbone," Rolle tweeted.
Born Ann Mumm in New York City on June 18, 1929, Mara is survived by 11 children, 43 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. One of her grandchildren, Chris' daughter Rooney Mara, was nominated for an Oscar for best actress for "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" in 2012.
Funeral plans are pending.
TOM CANAVAN, AP Sports Writer
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
60 Entries
February 19, 2015
What a precious wonderful spit fire of a woman! I just found out of her death having lost my brother a few days prior( Dr Charles Fortunato MD( father in law of SumnerRedstone 0wner of Viacom and Paramount pictures, who was a friend of Mr Tische) I was heart broken. Known to all as miss big blue photographed in every major New York and NJ paper NY post NY Times Usa today Star Mags cover Star Ledger App Bergen Record and more like Harry Carson quoted Sondra is a Giants Legend ! Mrs Mara always laughed when she saw me and gave me a hug and she even baked me a cake and the honor of getting a XMAS card from the Mara's MADE MY DAY! I even was married on August 14th Wellingtons birthday. !! What fond memories of the Marvelous Maras I will truly miss her just the way that I miss Wellington Wow HEAVEN MUST BE ROCKING!!!!!! What a dynasty they have left for me and everyone to love! GBU. Signed with Love and deepest sympathy to the family from Miss Big Blue. Aka Sondra Fortunato aka Miss Liberty USA
Andy and Pat Lohr
February 17, 2015
Ann doesn't have to save a seat fro Wellington anymore. He has one saved for her.
How you can show support
Grady Youngblood
February 12, 2015
Ann Mara is the part of the NFL History
part of NFL Team NY Giants.
Estelle Marie Halley O'Brien
February 10, 2015
I want to extend my condolences to the Mara Family. I knew Ann in the forties and I will alway remeber her especially on my 16th birthday. Love and best wishes from my family to yours.
Estelle Marie Halley O'Brien
February 10, 2015
I remeber her very well growing up in the forties and I will miss her greatly. My condolences to the Mara Family.
Dressing as a Giant player for Halloween
Geoffrey D'Aries
February 8, 2015
My deepest sympathy to the Mara Family. I have been a big giant fan my whole life of 30 years. I even went to the Giants Super Bowl. God Bless you and all your children.
Mrs. Richard (Karen) McCooey
February 7, 2015
Her wide smile and joyful heart will be missed.
Junnette Fambrini
February 7, 2015
Our deepest sympathies go out to you John and the Mara family. May God give you the comfort and peace that you seek and may the soul of Ann Mara rest in peace.
February 7, 2015
May the all wise and knowing God and Father of true peace grant your family a calm and firm heart
Baltimore
Ted Donahue, Jr.
February 7, 2015
Will miss her charm, her wit and her great smile that lit up the room...a true original...our entire family mourns her loss.
Mary Beth Crimmins Hunt
February 6, 2015
To the Mara Family,
So very saddened to hear of Ann's passing. I am thankful to have known her as my amazing godmother growing up at Winged Foot and attending Convent of the Sacred Heart. She was an Angel on earth and surely a newly cherished Angel in Heaven.
With love and prayers,
Jimmie
February 6, 2015
My sincere apologies for your loss please may God be a comfort to your family
Nancy Savastano
February 6, 2015
Sheila and family, please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart aches for you Sheila. Stay strong, and hold on to the wonderful memories. Love, Nancy
February 6, 2015
To the Mara Family,
On behalf of my son Ryan Jenkins(a former Iona Prep student), I offer our prayers and deepest sympathy. May God comfort your hearts during this time.
Prayerfully,
Jenkins Family
Beth Mumm-Sgarlato
February 5, 2015
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Rest peacefully Aunt Ann.
LARRY MUMM
February 5, 2015
REST IN PEACE AUNT ANN.
james woodson
February 5, 2015
We express our condolences to the Mara family and many friends. May you find comfort in your many fond memories together, God's promise to undo all tragedy and the words of the greatest man who ever lived: "Then, taking the hand of the child, he said to her: “Tal'i·tha cu'mi,” which, when translated, means: “Little girl (Ann), I say to you, ‘Get up!'” Mark 5:41
February 5, 2015
So sorry for your loss never had the pleasure of meeting the Mara family use have done so much for the tri-state area god bless.Anthony Riello
CarmaLynn Domino
February 4, 2015
Dear John and Family...So sorry to learn of your Moms passing...May her soul rest in peace and please accept my deepest sympathy...Sincerely,CarmaLynn Domino
February 4, 2015
For Donald Mumm Dear Don, I am sorry to hear about Ann's passing. As you know we graduated from grammer school together, same age within a month and lived two houses away on the same street. Remember when we moved some of her Aunt's items to Far Rockaway in the old car that broke down in the summer of 1950. That's the summer I met my wife, Joan. Please call me - Paul Murtha 732 295 4888
Franco (Frankie) D'Alessandro
February 4, 2015
Love and prayers to the entire Mara family. I had the pleasure and honor of knowing this amazing woman for 35 years. Ann Marie, her daughter, has been my dearest friend all those years. What an outstanding family Mr and Mrs Mara raised. Before her trip to England two years ago, I said to her: "You know, Mrs. Mara, the only Queen I recognize is Irish, Catholic and New Yorker." She laughed and flashed her smile which always lit up the room. And so I say, Long live the Queen!"
B Lucas
February 4, 2015
Special might is attributed to those of older years. What a blessing to be able to work at something you love so many years. To make a difference in the lives of so many people. May the fond memories of Ann bring back precious thoughts. My sincere condolence to her family and friends.
February 4, 2015
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
johnsons
February 4, 2015
We are so sorry about the loss of Mrs. Mara. What an amazing woman! I would have loved to have met her personally. My deepest condolences to her family and her team. May God provide comfort and strength during this time of sadness. Psalms 55:11
M Scott
February 4, 2015
My deepest condolences to Ann Mara Family and friends and the New York Giants organization. May God grant them comfort during this time of sorrow.
K.
February 4, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in Psalms 55:22 where we are encouraged to rely on our Heavenly Father for strength during hard times like these.
February 3, 2015
Our sympathies to the Mara family. Ann now joins Wellington in heaven reuniting the classiest, most elegant couple we have ever known. Steven and Diane Wilson, CT and AK
Brian Perry
February 3, 2015
To Steve Mara..
At stonehill you always talked about your mother...saying she was tough but kind....even at Brother Mikes.
I was short on dough one day and asked Chip Ryan for $20 for gas to see a friend hurt in an accident at the Cape. He said i don't have it but ask Steve. I went to the pits in O'Hara and found you and explained my predicament. You looked down and pulled out $40 and said if your lying then it's on your soul. I got in my yellow BMW and raced to the Cape.
The point...I paid you back...but like how you talked of your Mother...and like my tough Irish Mother....you were kind and tough....hold onto that because I have repaid that generosity you showed to others.
O'Hara.....Rm. 237
Laura
February 3, 2015
Mrs. Mara requested that I post this online if I am unable to attend her ceremony. Condolences to her team, her family (especially grandson Ted) and the NFL family.
I first met Mrs. Ann Mara, she introduced herself as "the First Lady of Football". Starting a conversation in that way guarantees it was going to go well! An immediate kinship was formed and has remained. I am sorry to hear of her passing.
I visited with her twice in recent months. I was in a retirement facility and did not recognize her immediately. I mistook her for a visitor of a resident there, even possibly the new resident I was told was moving in. Again, she introduced herself as the First Lady of Football. I gave her a kiss on the cheek and told her I too share her love for the game. She made sure to tell me her favorite team is the Giants! She offered me her beautiful football broach. I declined, knowing that generation wears it every day. It is her crest. We talked of the Giants, Michael Strahan, Eli Manning and Too Tall Jones. She loves that Michael always brought her a package of Oreos. We talked of our love of sweets. Cookies. I thought we should have a midnight snack. When grabbing her cookie, I took two. "One for breakfast." We went on to talk about the Giants and our visions for a new GIANT Stadium. She asked me to take care of her boys.
Next we talked of football. The nuances of the game in our changing world of participant ribbons and how important championships are in a world that is so PC. A child changes inside when they put on a uniform for the first time. In that act alone, there is courage. A pending war is coming. You have armor on but may get hurt a little or even a lot, but the end game is worth it. One team will win and be the victor. In even playing the game in the first place, there is a treasure trove of character that is earned. Courage, yes. But also bravery, strategy, physics, teamwork, trust, perseverance, friendship and love. In our own way, we give our lives to it. It IS important. Ancient civilizations knew this. Instead of war parties, they settled things on the field. Within the rules set for the game.
Before she passed, she settled things with both God and man. She said she found that one thing IS more important than football. That is your eternity.
New York City has a team, rightly named "the Giants". Mrs. Ann Mara was indeed a giant in the world for much more than football. She is the First Lady of Football and will forever be that in our hearts. In my heart. I thank her for her example of applied passion for the game and adopting me into her football family. God bless all of you who knew her and loved you. She loved you back. God bless.
-Laura
Wright
February 3, 2015
To the Mara family: Our hearts are saddened by the loss of your dear loved one. Trust in Almighty God to comfort you in the difficult days ahead. May your fond memories remain etched in your heart and mind. Remember what she taught and stood for in the sport's world, also as a mother, grandmother, friend and fan.
February 3, 2015
Rest in peace Ann.
Catherine Buchinsky
February 3, 2015
My condolence to the Mara family. Rest in Pease Mrs. Mara.
Marianne Scott
February 3, 2015
So sorry to hear of Ann's passing. Prayers and love to your family from the Scott family in Washington.
William Hugel
February 3, 2015
Mrs. Mara will be missed by all for her inspiration and her love of family! She is now an angel in heaven and with her husband. Peace and love forever!
February 2, 2015
She left a fine legacy behind. I hope to meet her in Paradise.
AR Washington DC
February 2, 2015
Sorry to learn of the loss of Ann Mara. Please accept my condolences. While words cannot totally alleviate the grief associated the loss your family matriarch, perhaps Psalm 121 will bring some comfort.
Ramellia Johnson
February 2, 2015
My Heart Felt Condolences Goes Out To The Family During This Difficult Time.
Jay Taylor
February 2, 2015
Ms. Mara was one of the nicest NFL owners I worked with. Each time they came to Atlanta, she always would remind me SHE was the boss - in a joking and loving way. RIP Ms. Mara, I sure hope they have pleanty of Vanilla Ice cream in heaven - her favorite...
Dan Bartow
February 2, 2015
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
February 2, 2015
My condolence to the Mara family. Find peace in knowing that God understands your grief and that He cares(1 Peter 5:6,7).
Maria Rose
February 2, 2015
My condolence to the family may the God of peace and comfort strengthen and sustain you at the most saddest of times and in the days ahead (Psalm 83:18).
Maria Rose
February 2, 2015
My heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and friends during this difficult time. I hope that the promise found in 1 Thessalonians 4 : 14 can bring you some comfort. Knowing that there is a future for the ones we have lost in death can be so reassuring.
Mary Bocchino
February 2, 2015
What an amazing women. I am so sorry for your loss. All everyone is saying is what a classy, generous person.
February 2, 2015
I wish to express my sincere sympathy to the Mara family, may God comfort you during this difficult time. May your loving memories sustain you.
CAROL & BILL HIGGINS
February 2, 2015
THINKING fondly of the Mara Family today...SuperBowl 2015 Sunday..Glendale Az. Tribute to Ann Mara.
We have wonderful memories of a day at a Playoff Game between
the Giants and Chicago in 1990 I think.
We were visiting out daughter, whose husband played with the NJ Devils, Leslie & Sean Burke. Ann's daughter, Maureen , who was in labor at the time, got her hubby, Doug Brown, to go to her Dad,Wellington Mara ,and got us tickets for the game.. "because Leslie's parents are here from Canada". It was and is the closest we ever got to NFL FOOTBALL and the generous nature of the Mara Family, and the last thing I would have ever thought about when I was in labor. Love to you all...
"The First Lady of NFL Football"...fitting for such a lovely, wife, mother, grandmother and mentor of sport. Peace Be With You all, A LIFE WELL LIVED.
Sister Kathleen Lunsmann
February 2, 2015
The members of the Board of Directors of SOAR! extend our deepest sympathy to the Mara family. Ann Mara was a faithful friend to Support Our Aging Religious. Many Sisters, Priests and Brothers benefited from her generosity. May she rest in peace. Sister Kathleen Lunsmann, IHM, President of SOAR!
Patty Schoen-Jones
February 1, 2015
So very sorry for your loss. Heaven has welcomed another Angel. Rest in Peace Mr and Mrs Mara .
February 1, 2015
To The Mara Family, we extend
our heartfelt sympathy to you.
May our Lord and Savior give you comfort and peace in your hearts today and the days ahead. You are in our prayers and thoughts.The Hall Family, South Carolina
RM
February 1, 2015
To the Mara family,
I am very sorry for the loss of Ann Mara. What a great loss for her family. She was a very amazing and beautiful woman. May God provide you with comfort and peace. As you celebrate the life of Mrs Mara, May you also have many expressions of loving support and encouragement from family, friends and fans. (Ps 34: 18)
jason carle
February 1, 2015
The world has lost a woman of extrodinary class and grace. Thank you for your service to humanity And football. May you rest in the arms of God.
J. Lewis
February 1, 2015
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your loved one, Ann Mara. May reflecting on all the good times you've shared together help to ease the pain you now feel. Also, may "the God of all comfort" strengthen you during this time of sadness, and may His promise for the future bring you peace. (Hosea 13:14)
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
February 1, 2015
In God's care rest in peace
Jack Barletta
February 1, 2015
To John Mara and your entire family and Giant family. I had the privilege of calling your dad a friend. I can feel happy they are reunited. You are all in my prayers. God bless.
r g
February 1, 2015
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Thomas Bush
February 1, 2015
so sorry for your loss of mom, is a true loss as well to the the nfl and giant organization may she rest in peace.
i am also a true new yorker and a giants fan.
February 1, 2015
May God be with you all. If there was a Saint she is one of them. I loved her and many of her children. I remember fun, laughs, Pudge Meghan Ann, this is Constance Andresen. Your Mother was a wonderful Lady and friend. I wish you all peace in knowing that she is with God and your Father. I remember your Father's funeral and all the love surrounding St. Patrick's that day, but most of all I remember your Mother's smile, our shopping days, the Breakers in Palm Beach holiday, and all the wonderful sleepovers with you all. I know Ann is in heaven and enjoying knowing that she had the best children in the world. All of you know that your Mother was loved for the Lady she was. Be well and God Bless you all. Warmly, Constance Andresen
Scott Chamberland
February 1, 2015
Rest in Peace
February 1, 2015
You will have the best seat in the house today! God Bless!
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