The Rooney family has announced the passing of Matthew Rooney, grandson of late Pittsburgh Steelers owner and Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinee Art Rooney. Matthew died earlier this month at his home in the Hamptons on Long Island, New York. He was 51 years old. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Matthew Rooney was the son of JoAnn Wallace Rooney and John J. Rooney. His family once held a 16 percent share in the Steelers franchise before selling it in 2009. He was also the cousin of Art Rooney III, who is currently president of the Steelers.
According to information from his obituary, Matthew grew up around football but pursued his passion for writing. He earned a bachelor’s degree from New York University and a master’s from Columbia University. In addition to his work as a writer and artist, he was known as an avid fan of ballet and opera.
A statement in his obituary reads: “Matthew’s wit, charm and love of fashion made him one of life’s last true Dandies and an authentic Bon Vivant.”
He is preceded in death by his father and brother but is survived by his mother, four siblings, as well as 33 nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Aug. 21 at St. Helena Catholic Church in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania.
