Who Was Sister Jean? Beloved Loyola Chaplain Dies at Age 106 After Decades-Long Career

Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the cherished chaplain of Loyola University Chicago’s men’s basketball team and one of March Madness’s most beloved figures, died on October 9, 2025, in Chicago. She was 106. Loyola announced her passing late Thursday night but did not reveal a cause of death.

Known simply as “Sister Jean,” she became a national icon during Loyola’s stunning 2018 run to the NCAA Final Four. Her warmth, humor, deep faith, and basketball insight captured the hearts of fans far beyond Chicago. Until her final years, she remained a fixture at Loyola games, greeting students and praying courtside before tip-off.

Her Life and Career: From San Francisco to Loyola Legend

Born in San Francisco in 1919, Jean Dolores Schmidt joined the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1937. She spent her early career as a teacher and educator before joining Mundelein College, which later merged with Loyola University Chicago. She dedicated more than 60 years to the university community.

In the mid-1990s, Sister Jean became the chaplain for Loyola’s men’s basketball team — a role that blended her love for faith, education, and sports. She quickly became a beloved presence on campus, known for her daily greetings to students, postgame emails to coaches, and heartfelt pregame prayers.

Her sharp basketball mind was no secret. Sister Jean frequently sent scouting reports to then-head coach Porter Moser, breaking down opponents and strategies. Even during the team’s biggest games, she remained grounded and honest. In 2018, when Loyola made its remarkable NCAA Tournament run, she famously predicted the team would reach only the Sweet 16 on her bracket — a modest expectation the Ramblers quickly exceeded.

March Madness Fame and National Spotlight

Sister Jean’s story became one of the most talked-about narratives of the 2018 tournament. At age 98, she appeared at a packed press conference during the Final Four in San Antonio, charming reporters with her humor and optimism. “Good morning,” she said with a wide smile. “Oh, you better believe it,” she added when asked if she was ready for the big stage.

Though Loyola ultimately lost to Michigan in the semifinal, Sister Jean’s presence turned the Ramblers’ Cinderella story into something larger — a celebration of faith, resilience, and joy in sports. Her image in maroon and gold scarves courtside became a symbol of March Madness itself.

She continued to inspire even in her later years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she attended the 2021 NCAA Tournament in the Indiana “bubble” at age 101 after being fully vaccinated. Loyola upset top-seeded Illinois before exiting in the Sweet 16. In 2023, she published a memoir reflecting on her life and philosophy, often quoting her mother’s favorite saying: “It’s better to wear out than rust out.”

Legacy That Will Live On

Weeks before her passing, Loyola announced Sister Jean’s retirement from official duties due to health concerns. University leaders called her a beacon of faith and joy whose impact went far beyond the basketball court.

Her influence spanned generations — from students who cherished her hallway greetings to players who drew strength from her pregame prayers. She reminded everyone that college sports could be about more than wins and losses; they could be about community, purpose, and love.

Sister Jean’s death ends a remarkable 106-year life defined by service, faith, and sportsmanship. Her name will forever be linked with Loyola basketball and the spirit of March Madness, a legacy that will inspire for decades to come.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Sister Jean?

She died on October 9, 2025, in Chicago at the age of 106. Loyola University announced her passing, though no cause was provided.

Q2: How did Sister Jean become famous?

She became a global figure during Loyola’s 2018 NCAA Final Four run for her courtside presence, scouting reports, and joyful spirit.

Q3: What was Sister Jean’s career before basketball?

She joined the Sisters of Charity in 1937 and worked as a teacher and educator for decades before becoming Loyola’s chaplain in the 1990s.

Q4: Did Sister Jean remain active in recent years?

Yes. Even at 101, she attended the 2021 NCAA Tournament and continued her work at Loyola until retiring shortly before her death.

Q5: What is Sister Jean’s legacy?

She left a legacy of faith, joy, mentorship, and love for basketball, inspiring students and fans around the world.

References

Associated Press. (2025). Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, Loyola Chicago’s beloved chaplain, dies at 106. October 10, 2025.

NPR. (2025). Loyola’s Sister Jean, who became a March Madness icon, dies at 106. October 10, 2025.

Chicago Tribune. (2025). Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt dies at 106. October 10, 2025.