Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold was laid to rest on Tuesday, November 4, in a moving funeral service at St. Vincent Martyr in Madison, N.J. with over 400 people in attendance.
Mangold, who passed away on October 25 at the age of 41 due to complications from kidney disease, was remembered fondly by his friends, family, and former teammates. Hall of Famer Alan Faneca delivered a heartfelt eulogy, wearing a black suit and a green Jets cap as a tribute to Mangold. “Nick had this special ability to make everyone feel seen, valued, and cared for,” Faneca shared. “He had a gift for turning ordinary moments into memories through his humor, kindness, and genuine heart.”
Ryan Fitzpatrick, another former teammate, also spoke at the service, reciting a passage from the Book of Proverbs. The presence of former Jets coach Rex Ryan and players like Darrelle Revis, Chad Pennington, and others added to the emotional atmosphere of the day.
Mangold’s death came shortly after he made a public plea on Instagram for a kidney donor. Diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 2006, he was undergoing dialysis while waiting for a transplant. Despite the challenges he faced, Mangold remained positive and hopeful, touching the hearts of many with his openness and vulnerability.
Jets Chairman Woody Johnson praised Mangold for his leadership and toughness on the field, calling him the heartbeat of the Jets offensive line for a decade. Mangold’s impact extended beyond his football career, as he was known for his wit, warmth, and unwavering loyalty to his teammates and the Jets organization.
In a touching tribute, Mangold’s former teammate at Ohio State, A.J. Hawk, served as one of the pallbearers at the funeral, wearing Mangold’s No. 74 on his breast pocket. Mangold is survived by his wife, Jennifer “Jenny” Mangold, their four children, and his parents and sisters.
The football community mourns the loss of a legend in Nick Mangold, whose legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew him. Rest in peace, Nick Mangold.
