Matthew Rooney, the grandson of Pittsburgh Steelers founder Art Rooney, died at his home in East Hampton, New York on Aug. 15, 2025. He was 51 years old. The Steelers confirmed Rooney’s passing but did not reveal a cause of death.
“The Rooney Family is mourning the loss of Matthew,” a Pittsburgh Steelers spokesperson said in a statement to The Post.
Born in Meadowbrook, Pennsylvania on Nov. 11, 1973 to JoAnn Wallace Rooney and John J. Rooney, Matthew Joseph Rooney came from a family closely tied to professional football history. His father was a minority shareholder of the Steelers until selling most of his stake in 2009.
Rooney graduated from New York University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and later earned a Master’s degree at Columbia University. He spent time living in both New York and Los Angeles before settling in Brooklyn Heights and East Hampton.
Rooney was active in arts organizations including serving as vice chair for the donor arm of the New York City Ballet’s Allegro Circle and as a member of the board of directors for the Metropolitan Opera of New York.
Family members remembered him for his personality and distinct style: “wit, charm and love of fashion” that made him “one of life’s last true Dandies and an authentic Bob Viviant,” according to the family.
Fashion designer Joshua Kamei commented on social media regarding his experience with Rooney: “I was saddened to hear about the passing of Matthew Rooney. I didn’t know him well, but he was always a kind, familiar face at the ballet — someone who had a special way of making others feel welcome and celebrated.”
He is survived by his mother JoAnn Wallace Rooney, four older siblings, fifteen nieces and nephews, and eighteen great-nieces and great-nephews.
The Rooney family has owned the Pittsburgh Steelers since Art Rooney guided them into the National Football League in 1933. Art Rooney served as chairman and owner until his death in 1988; his son Dan became president in 1975 before passing away in 2002. The franchise is now run by owner and president Art Rooney II, Matthew’s cousin.
A private funeral service will be held for Matthew Rooney on Aug. 21 in Philadelphia.
