Former 49ers GM John McVay Passes Away at Age 91

Former San Francisco 49ers general manager John McVay has passed away, according to a team statement Tuesday.

McVay, 91, spent 22 seasons with the 49ers (1979-95 & 1999-2003) in different capacities. San Francisco dedicated the team’s draft room as the “John McVay Draft Room” in his honor in 2016.

The savvy general manager originally joined the team as Director of Player Personnel in 1979. He spent 17 years (1979-95) with the 49ers and held administrative responsibilities that included Vice President and General Manager, Director of Player Personnel, Director of Football Operations, Vice President for Football Administration, Administrative Vice President and Assistant to the President.

McVay oversaw five Super Bowl titles in The Bay, before retiring in the 1995 season. He re-joined the 49ers in 1999, serving as Vice President/Director of Football Operations through the 2003 season.

“This is a very sad day for our organization and the entire football community,” the team’s statement said. “John McVay was a driving force in constructing teams for our five Super Bowl titles. Most importantly, John was a Hall of Fame person who built genuine and sincere relationships with front office staff, coaches and players. John’s commitment and contributions to the 49ers created the standard and tradition we strive to carry on today. Our thoughts and prayers are with the McVay family.”

McVay’s legacy is carried on through his grandson, Sean, the head coach of the Los Angeles Rams.

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