Jean Dolores Schmidt , officially renowned as Sister Jean , has sadly passed away at the remarkable age of 106. A life of extraordinary impact, built on faith, love, and community, came to a peaceful end on October 9, 2025. For generations of students and players at Loyola University Chicago , she was more than just the beloved chaplain for the men's basketball team; she was a vibrant and inspiring force, the very heartbeat of the team. Even at an older age, her energy and support were a constant source of motivation for the team. She has left a dynasty that will never be forgotten.
Sister Jean dedicated her life to faith and Basketball
Sister Jean chose her path to faith quite early as she dreamed of dedicating her life to service. Soon after high school, she made that dream a reality by joining the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, setting the stage for a legacy that would touch thousands.She earned degrees from Mount St. Mary’s College and Loyola University of Los Angeles.
She began her teaching career in California before moving to Chicago in 1961 to teach at Mundelein College. During the 1960s, she was active in the civil rights movement. When Mundelein merged with Loyola in 1991, she continued to work on campus. In 1994, she became the team chaplain for the Loyola Ramblers men’s basketball team.
In 2018, she captured national attention when Loyola made a magical run to the Final Four. She became a tournament icon, and her bobblehead dolls became collector’s items. She remained connected to the team well into her 100s.
Sister Jean’s legacy goes beyond the court
Sister Jean’s impact went far beyond basketball. She also bagged an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis on her 100th birthday. The plaza at Loyola's CTA station was dedicated in Sister Jean's honor in 2022, a tribute to her decades of service. Throughout her time at Loyola University Chicago, she had a special ability to make others feel valued and cared for.
Throughout her life, she hosted many weekly prayer groups that became a source of inspiration for many.
More than her words, Sister Jean's actions embodied a life of love and service. She will always be remembered with a smile in the Loyola community and far beyond.
Also Read: Sister Jean's cause of death: Beloved Loyola-Chicago chaplain legend passes at 106
Sister Jean dedicated her life to faith and Basketball
Sister Jean chose her path to faith quite early as she dreamed of dedicating her life to service. Soon after high school, she made that dream a reality by joining the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, setting the stage for a legacy that would touch thousands.She earned degrees from Mount St. Mary’s College and Loyola University of Los Angeles.
She began her teaching career in California before moving to Chicago in 1961 to teach at Mundelein College. During the 1960s, she was active in the civil rights movement. When Mundelein merged with Loyola in 1991, she continued to work on campus. In 1994, she became the team chaplain for the Loyola Ramblers men’s basketball team.
Loyola University Chicago is greatly saddened to confirm the death of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, BVM. This is a tremendous loss of someone who touched the lives of so many people. We appreciate everyone’s thoughts & prayers during this difficult time. Details to follow. pic.twitter.com/zPiMY1MsIu
— Loyola University Chicago (@LoyolaChicago) October 10, 2025
In 2018, she captured national attention when Loyola made a magical run to the Final Four. She became a tournament icon, and her bobblehead dolls became collector’s items. She remained connected to the team well into her 100s.
Sister Jean’s legacy goes beyond the court
Sister Jean’s impact went far beyond basketball. She also bagged an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis on her 100th birthday. The plaza at Loyola's CTA station was dedicated in Sister Jean's honor in 2022, a tribute to her decades of service. Throughout her time at Loyola University Chicago, she had a special ability to make others feel valued and cared for.
Throughout her life, she hosted many weekly prayer groups that became a source of inspiration for many.
More than her words, Sister Jean's actions embodied a life of love and service. She will always be remembered with a smile in the Loyola community and far beyond.
Also Read: Sister Jean's cause of death: Beloved Loyola-Chicago chaplain legend passes at 106
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