Wellington Mara, 1916-2005

Hall of Famer Wellington Mara passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 89.  Mara, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 1997, served the New York Giants and National Football League since the 1930s.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Wellington Mara,” commented the Hall’s Chairman of the Board John Muhlbach, Jr.  “Our prayers and thoughts go out to Wellington’s entire family at this time.

“His contribution to the NFL over many decades is immeasurable,” Muhlbach added.  "Furthermore, Wellington’s dedication to the Hall of Fame as a long-time member of our Board of Directors has been an integral part of our development and growth.”

Mara witnessed his first Giants game as a youngster during the team’s inaugural season of 1925.  He spent his entire adult life as a member of the Giants front office, a role he served until his death.

Under Mara’s direction, the Giants captured 16 divisional championships, counting two after his election to the Hall; and six league titles including wins in Super Bowls XXI and XXV.

Mara was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame on January 25, 1997 and formally inducted on July 26 of that year along with Mike Haynes, Don Shula, and Mike Webster.

 BIO: Wellington Mara

 PHOTO GALLERY: Wellington Mara

 ENSHRINEMENT: Speech transcript

 HISTORY: New York Giants | Bio: Tim Mara, Class of 1963