Sister Jean, Loyola Chicago icon and basketball chaplain, dead at 106
Sister Jean, Loyola Chicago Men’s Basketball Chaplain, Passes Away at 106
It is with heavy hearts that Loyola Chicago announced the passing of Jean Dolores Schmidt, affectionately known as “Sister Jean,” on Thursday. At the age of 106, Sister Jean left behind a legacy that will forever be remembered.
During Loyola Chicago’s incredible Final Four journey in 2018 as an No. 11 seed, Sister Jean became a national sports icon. She had been the official chaplain of the Ramblers since 1991 and played an integral role in the team’s success.
“In many roles at Loyola over the course of more than 60 years, Sister Jean was an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff,” said Loyola President Mark C. Reed. “Her presence was a profound blessing for our entire community, and her spirit will live on in the lives she touched.”
Despite retiring from her official duties with the men’s basketball team due to health concerns, Sister Jean’s passion for the game never wavered. In her memoir, “Wake Up with Purpose!: What I’ve Learned in My First Hundred Years,” she expressed her love for basketball and likened it to a game of chess.
Reflecting on the 2018 Final Four run, Sister Jean told the Chicago Sun-Times in 2024 that she relived those moments with joy. Her inspirational pregame prayers and unwavering support for the team endeared her to fans and players alike.
One of Sister Jean’s memorable moments was her pregame prayer before a 2021 NCAA tournament game against Illinois, where she asked for divine assistance in securing a victory. Her strategic insights and unwavering faith made her an indispensable part of the team.
Loyola Chicago will soon announce visitation and funeral arrangements to honor the life and legacy of Sister Jean. Her impact on the university, the basketball program, and the community will never be forgotten.
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