Ann Mara, Giants matriarch, passes away at 85

Ann Mara, wife of the late New York Giants owner Wellington Mara and mother of current co-owner John Mara, passed away this morning at the age of 85.

Here is the statement from John Mara:

"I am sad to say that our mother has passed away," said John Mara, Ann's son and the Giants' president and chief executive officer. "She has been the leader of our family in every way, and we will miss her dearly.

"She slipped in front of her home (in Rye, N.Y.) during the ice storm two weeks ago (January 18). She had been in the hospital since the following day, initially due to a head injury she suffered in her fall. After a few days, we were hopeful for her recovery, although we knew it would be a long road back. Unfortunately, there were complications.

"She loved her family, and all of us were able to spend time with her in these final days. All 11 of her children and our spouses and numerous grandchildren were with her when she passed away."

Here is some of the reaction to the passing of Mrs. Mara:

Roger Goodell on the death of Ann Mara: "Mrs. Mara was a tower of strength, dignity and inspiration for her family and all of us in the NFL"

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RVacchianoNYDN) February 1, 2015

I will never forget the words Mr. & Mrs. Mara said to me when my father passed before my rookie season. That is why I never left the @Giants

— David Diehl (@davediehl66) February 1, 2015

I will never forget the words Mr. & Mrs. Mara said to me when my father passed before my rookie season. That is why I never left the @Giants

— David Diehl (@davediehl66) February 1, 2015

Rest in Peace Mrs. Mara. My prayers also for The Mara family. What a great woman!!!!

— Justin Tuck (@JustinTuck) February 1, 2015

Ann Mara vs. Terry Bradshaw: https://t.co/OLeBaZohrg

— Neil Best (@sportswatch) February 1, 2015

I absolutely love this woman! She had a smile that would brighten anyone's day. She was our fighter & backbone. pic.twitter.com/BJIhbODImB

— Antrel Rolle (@antrelrolle26) February 1, 2015