In a heartbreaking moment that has left the NFL community in mourning, Donna Kelce, the beloved mother of Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, passed away suddenly at the age of 72 on April 15, 2025. The devastating news, confirmed by FOX News during a live broadcast, unfolded in a deeply emotional scene as the Kelce brothers collapsed in tears, surrounded by family, at a hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. The loss of Donna, affectionately known as “Mama Kelce” to millions of fans, has shattered the hearts of the NFL world, leaving a void in a family that has become a symbol of unity and love in professional football.
Donna Kelce’s sudden passing came just hours after she attended a charity event in Cleveland, where she was supporting childhood literacy programs—a cause she championed throughout her life. According to sources close to the family, Donna suffered a massive heart attack and was rushed to Cleveland Clinic, where doctors were unable to revive her. The news broke during a live FOX News segment, with reporter Laura Ingraham visibly emotional as she announced, “We’ve just received confirmation of the tragic loss of Donna Kelce, a woman who meant so much to the NFL and her sons, Travis and Jason.” Cameras captured the gut-wrenching moment outside the hospital as Travis, 35, and Jason, 37, broke down in each other’s arms, their cries echoing through the somber crowd of onlookers.
Donna Kelce became a household name in recent years, particularly during the 2023 Super Bowl—dubbed the “Kelce Bowl”—when her sons faced off as opponents, with Travis and the Chiefs defeating Jason and the Eagles. Wearing a split jersey to support both teams, Donna’s infectious warmth and pride endeared her to fans, earning her the title of America’s favorite football mom. Her presence at games, often seen cheering in the stands or delivering homemade cookies to her sons’ teammates, made her a beloved figure across the league. She also co-hosted the popular podcast New Heights with Travis and Jason, where her humor and wisdom resonated with listeners, amassing over 2 million downloads per episode.
The Kelce brothers, known for their toughness on the field, were inconsolable as they grappled with the sudden loss. Travis, who recently led the Chiefs in a playoff push despite their Super Bowl loss to the Eagles this year, 40-22, leaned on Jason for support, the elder brother wrapping his arms around him as they wept. Jason, who has been a pillar for the Eagles under new owner Elon Musk, was heard saying, “I can’t believe she’s gone,” as family members, including Donna’s husband, Ed Kelce, joined them in their grief. The scene, broadcast live, struck a chord with viewers, with #MamaKelce trending on X as fans shared their sorrow. “Donna Kelce was the heart of the NFL—she loved her boys and her fans so much. This is devastating,” one user wrote.
Donna’s impact extended far beyond her sons’ careers. A former bank executive and mother of two, she became an advocate for family values in sports, often speaking about the importance of balancing athletics with education. Her charitable work, particularly with organizations like Ronald McDonald House, touched countless lives, and her legacy as a devoted mom inspired parents everywhere. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement, saying, “Donna Kelce embodied the spirit of the NFL—love, strength, and community. We mourn her loss with Travis, Jason, and their family.”
As the Kelce family navigates this unimaginable tragedy, the NFL community rallies around them, offering support and prayers. Donna Kelce’s sudden passing at 72 leaves a profound void, but her warmth, laughter, and unwavering love for her sons will forever be remembered by fans who saw in her the best of what family—and football—can be.
