Patriots Fan Dies Hours After Team Reaches Super Bowl LX

Shelly Sepulveda, a devoted Patriots fan, passed away just days before the big game.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 4:39pm

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A New England Patriots superfan named Shelly Sepulveda tragically died on Monday, just hours after the team clinched a spot in Super Bowl LX. Sepulveda, who was battling stage 3 ovarian cancer, was gifted tickets to the Super Bowl by Patriots owner Robert Kraft before her passing. She is being remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and foster parent who deeply loved the Patriots.

Why it matters

Sepulveda's story highlights the powerful connection between sports teams and their most passionate fans, even in the face of terminal illness. Her death just before the Patriots' big game is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment, especially for those facing serious health challenges.

The details

Sepulveda was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer in 2024. She was readmitted to the hospital on January 17, 2026 with low blood counts. Despite her illness, Sepulveda remained a devoted Patriots fan, telling team owner Robert Kraft at a recent game, "When I'm here, I don't think about cancer, I watch the Patriots." Kraft gifted Sepulveda tickets to Super Bowl LX on the field during the Patriots' Wild Card win over the Los Angeles Chargers.

  • Sepulveda was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer in 2024.
  • Sepulveda was readmitted to the hospital on January 17, 2026 with low blood counts.
  • Sepulveda died on Monday, just hours after the Patriots clinched a spot in Super Bowl LX.

The players

Shelly Sepulveda

A devoted New England Patriots fan who was battling stage 3 ovarian cancer.

Tami Sepulveda

Shelly's wife of more than 23 years, with whom she fostered over 20 children and adopted 5.

Robert Kraft

The owner of the New England Patriots, who gifted Shelly Sepulveda tickets to Super Bowl LX.

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What they’re saying

“When I'm here, I don't think about cancer, I watch the Patriots.”

— Shelly Sepulveda (Boston 25 News)

“It's a constant battle, and it is survivorship and fighting for my life.”

— Shelly Sepulveda (Boston 25 News)

“I'm not a quitter, and I don't want my kids to think I'm a quitter. But I want them to know it's also okay for them to ask for help.”

— Shelly Sepulveda (Boston 25 News)

The takeaway

Shelly Sepulveda's tragic passing just before the Super Bowl serves as a poignant reminder of the power of sports to uplift and inspire, even in the face of immense personal challenges. Her story highlights the profound bond between fans and their teams, and the importance of cherishing every moment, no matter what obstacles life may bring.