Colts Owner Jim Irsay to Fund Scholarship in Honor of Edwin Jackson

In the days following former Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson’s death, Jim Irsay has paid for Jackson’s funeral and begun a scholarship in Jackson’s name.

Edwin Jackson and Uber driver Jeffery Monroe were both struck by a drunk driver while standing outside of a vehicle on the side of the road early last Sunday morning. Jackson and Monroe both died from the collision in a tragedy that impacted the entire Colts organization.

Jim Irsay doesn’t have a great reputation among Colts fans, but he has jumped into action to do whatever he can to help people recover from this saddening event.

He paid for Jackson’s memorial service in Atlanta on Monday, and several members of the Colts’ organization were in attendance to pay their respects to their fallen teammate. Irsay also paid for the funeral service of Jeffery Monroe, who was tending to Jackson on the side of the highway when he was struck by the F-150.

Irsay was quoted in the statement announcing the scholarship program on the Colts’ website:

"“This scholarship will honor Edwin’s memory and his determination, work ethic and character,” said Irsay, “My family and the entire Colts organization are proud to have been associated with Edwin, and we are honored to help continue his legacy in the future.”"

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Irsay’s gift amounts to $25,000 that will go directly into the Edwin Jackson Memorial Scholarship fund. Jackson’s Memorial Scholarship will be a separate fund under the umbrella of the Indianapolis Colts foundation, and it will be awarded to a qualified student applicant each year based on guidelines set with the help of Edwin Jackson’s family.

It’s often difficult to see the bright side of an unspeakable tragedy such as this, but now one student’s life will change each year in honor of Edwin Jackson, and helping others reach their dreams is a great way to keep Jackson’s spirit alive.

Next: Colts Linebacker Edwin Jackson Dead After Car Collision

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