Giants co-owner Ann Mara dies at 85

Ann Mara, the New York Giants' co-owner and widow of Wellington Mara, died early Sunday morning due to complications from a head injury suffered in a fall two weeks ago. She was 85 years old.

"I am sad to say that our mother has passed away," John Mara, Giants president and CEO, said in statement released by the team. "She has been the leader of our family in every way, and we will miss her dearly."

John Mara said Ann Mara slipped in front of her home in Rye, New York during an ice storm on Jan. 18 and had been in the hospital ever since.

"After a few days, we were hopeful for her recovery, although we knew it would be a long road back," John Mara said. "Unfortunately, there were complications. She loved her family, and all of us were able to spend time wit her in these final days. All 11 of her children and our spouses and numerous grandchildren were with her when she passed away."

Ann Mara and her 11 children, including John, have owned 50 percent of the Giants since Wellington Mara's death in 2005.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement later Sunday.

"Mrs. Mara was a tower of strength, dignity and inspiration for her family and all of us in the NFL," Goodell said. "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."

The Giants were founded in 1925 by Tim Mara, who was Wellington's father. Wellington's nephew, also named Tim Mara, sold the other 50 percent of the team to the Tisch family in 1991.

Ann and Wellington Mara were married in 1954 and had four sons, seven daughters, 43 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Two of the 43 grandchildren are well-known actresses -- Rooney Mara and Kate Mara.

Of the 11 children, three work in the Giants' front office -- John as president and CEO, Chris as senior vice president of player evaluation and Frank as the vice president of community relations.