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 at the age of 85.

Often referred to as "The First Lady of Football," she died due to complications from a head injury suffered in a fall two weeks ago.

"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 his mother slipped in front of her home in Rye, N.Y., 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 with 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 have owned 50 percent of the Giants since Wellington Mara died in 2005 at age 89.

Three of her children 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.

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."