Jim Irsay wasn’t just the owner of the Indianapolis Colts—he was a larger-than-life character, a rock ’n’ roll soul with a football obsession, and a man whose personal life was as dramatic as it was heartfelt. From high school sweethearts to tragic losses, from a trio of powerhouse daughters to his own battles with health, Irsay’s story is one of love, legacy, and resilience.
Let’s break it all down—his marriages, his romances, his kids, and what ultimately happened to him.
The Love Story That Lasted (and Then Didn’t): Meg Coyle
Jim Irsay met Meg Coyle when they were just teenagers at Loyola Academy in Wilmette, Illinois. High school sweethearts turned husband and wife, they tied the knot in 1980 when Jim was only 20. For over three decades, they built a life together—raising three daughters, navigating the pressures of NFL ownership, and weathering the ups and downs of fame.
But by the early 2000s, cracks began to show. They separated in 2003, though they stayed legally married for another decade. The divorce was finalized in 2013, ending a 33-year marriage. Despite the split, Meg remained a constant in Jim’s life, especially when it came to their daughters and the Colts. There was no bitter feud, no tabloid drama—just a quiet parting of ways.
What Happened After the Divorce?
Meg stayed out of the spotlight, but she never faded from the family business. She supported her daughters as they took on bigger roles with the Colts, ensuring the Irsay legacy stayed strong.
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The Women Who Came After: Kimberly Wundrum & Michelle Paul
Jim wasn’t one to stay single for long. After his split from Meg, two women played significant roles in his life—one marked by tragedy, the other by transformation.
Kimberly Wundrum: A Love Shadowed by Loss
Kimberly Wundrum was Jim’s girlfriend for years, though their relationship was kept extremely private. He financially supported her, buying her multiple homes, but their story took a dark turn.
In March 2014, Kimberly died of a drug overdose—a devastating blow for Jim, who had his own battles with addiction. The loss hit him hard, but he never spoke publicly about it in detail.
Michelle Paul: The Vegan Influence
Later in life, Jim dated Michelle Paul, a vegan activist who completely changed his lifestyle. Under her influence, he:
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Converted his private jet into the “Blue Vegan” (yes, really).
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Introduced vegan food options at Lucas Oil Stadium.
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Embraced a healthier, plant-based diet.
Their relationship showed a different side of Jim—one focused on wellness, even as he continued to struggle with his own health issues.
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The Irsay Daughters: Carlie, Casey, and Kalen
Jim’s greatest legacy wasn’t just the Colts—it was his three daughters, all of whom are now co-owners of the team. These women aren’t just heirs; they’re leaders, each carving out their own space in the NFL world.
1. Carlie Irsay-Gordon – The Football Brain
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Born: Around 1981 (oldest of the three).
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Role: The most involved in football operations. She interned with the Colts, worked her way up, and became Vice Chair/Owner in 2012.
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Key Moment: When Jim went to rehab in 2014, Carlie took over day-to-day operations—proving she wasn’t just a figurehead.
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Personal Life: Married to Zach Gordon; they have three kids.
2. Casey Foyt – The Marketing Maven
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Born: 1983 (middle daughter).
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Role: Focuses on marketing, branding, and community relations. She even worked for the NFL in London before joining the Colts full-time.
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Personal Life: Married to A.J. Foyt IV (yes, that Foyt family—racing royalty). They have five kids.
3. Kalen Jackson – The Heart of the Family
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Born: Youngest of the trio.
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Role: Leads the family’s mental health initiative, Kicking the Stigma, and handles philanthropy.
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Personal Life: Married to Boyd Jackson; they have two daughters.
The Future of the Colts
With Jim’s passing, the team now rests in the hands of Carlie, Casey, and Kalen. They’ve been groomed for this moment—expect Carlie to take the lead, but all three will shape the franchise’s future.
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What Happened to Jim Irsay? The Final Chapter
Jim Irsay passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 21, 2025, at 65 years old.
The Health Struggles Leading Up
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December 2023: He was found unresponsive at home in what was suspected to be an overdose. He survived but was visibly weakened.
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Early 2024: He battled a severe respiratory illness, leading to hospitalization. His health never fully recovered.
No official cause of death was released, but it’s clear his body had been through a lot.
His Legacy
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Super Bowl XLI Champion (2007).
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Philanthropist—especially in mental health and addiction recovery.
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Music Lover—his collection included guitars from The Beatles, Elvis, and Prince.
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A Complicated, But Loved Figure—flawed, passionate, and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Jim Irsay lived hard, loved deeply, and left behind a family ready to carry his torch. His daughters are his ultimate triumph—three strong women who’ll keep the Colts thriving for years to come.
As for Jim? He’s probably up there somewhere, jamming on a 1962 Stratocaster and smiling down at the legacy he built.
Rest easy, Captain.
