At the age of 86, Jerry Richardson, who was the founder of the Carolina Panthers football team, has gone away. In recent years, Richardson, who was also the original owner of the squad, has been dealing with a variety of health difficulties.
The news of Richardson’s passing was confirmed by his family in a statement released on Monday. “Our dad loved the Carolinas and the people who call it home,” the statement read. “Jerry Richardson was a self-made man who came from humble beginnings and carved out a remarkable life. He will be missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will endure.”
Richardson, a former player in the NFL, founded the Carolina Panthers in 1993 and served as the team’s owner until 2017. During his tenure, the Panthers made two Super Bowl appearances and won three division titles. Richardson was also a key figure in the development of Bank of America Stadium, the team’s home field.
In 2017, Richardson announced that he would sell the team following allegations of workplace misconduct. The NFL launched an investigation into Richardson’s behavior, and the team was eventually sold to David Tepper for $2.275 billion.
Despite the controversy surrounding his departure from the team, Richardson remained a beloved figure in the Carolinas. He was known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare. In 2012, he donated $10 million to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte to fund the construction of a football stadium.
The National Football League and the state of North and South Carolina have been inundated with tributes to Richardson since his passing. David Tepper, the owner of the Carolina Panthers, said that Jerry Richardson will always be recognised as the creator of the Carolina Panthers and a tremendous leader in our community.
Richardson is survived by his wife, Rosalind Sallenger Richardson, his three sons, Mark, Jon, and James, and his six grandchildren. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.