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Sister Jean dies at 106: Sports world mourns former Loyola Chicago basketball chaplain and superfan | Sporting News

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, October 12th 2025 at 9:44 GMT by Sporting News
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Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the beloved chaplain of Loyola University Chicago’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, passed away on Friday at the age of 106. Her death marks the end of a remarkable life that spanned more than a century, during which she became a quiet pillar of faith, mentorship, and inspiration for athletes, students, and the Chicago community at large.

A Lifetime of Service

Born on August 30, 1918, in San Antonio, Texas, Sister Jean entered the Catholic Church in her early twenties, joining the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. After completing her theological training in California, she was drawn to Chicago, where she began her teaching career at St. Mary's Academy in the West Side. Her vocation evolved from classroom teacher to a spiritual guide, as she recognized the power of faith to shape young lives on and off the court.

In 1985, Sister Jean was invited to serve as the chaplain for Loyola University Chicago’s basketball program. She accepted the role with humility, knowing that her ministry would extend beyond traditional pastoral duties. Over the next 33 years, she became an integral part of the program’s fabric, attending practices, games, and tournaments while offering prayers, encouragement, and a steady presence in a world that could be both exhilarating and stressful for student‑athletes.

The 2018 Championship Miracle

Sister Jean’s most widely recognized contribution came during the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. Loyola Chicago, a mid‑major program, shocked the nation by advancing to the Final Four and ultimately finishing in the national championship game. Throughout the tournament, Sister Jean’s vibrant red cardigan, bright smile, and signature white hat made her an unmistakable figure on the sidelines. She sang hymns, shared words of faith, and held up her “Let’s Go, Loyola” banner, becoming a living embodiment of the team’s underdog spirit.

The media dubbed her the “Red‑Haired Cheerleader,” and her presence sparked a surge of national interest. Her gentle voice on the sidelines—“Let’s go, you are a little bit higher”—became a rallying cry for the team and their fans. The image of her waving a bright red cardigan behind a basketball that ultimately won a national title was immortalized in countless memes, tweets, and news segments. Her story resonated with audiences beyond the court, illustrating how faith, perseverance, and community can converge to produce extraordinary results.

A Spiritual Anchor

Sister Jean’s ministry extended far beyond basketball. She taught spiritual formation to high school students in Chicago’s underserved neighborhoods, organized Catholic retreats, and served as a confidante for countless individuals. Her influence was noted by coaches, players, and local leaders alike. When the head coach of the men's team, Mike Deane, shared his thoughts, he remarked, “She was the heartbeat of our program. She didn’t just pray for us; she was a friend, a teacher, and a mother to us all.”

Many former players spoke of her unwavering faith and her ability to balance compassion with a firm moral compass. One former player recalled, “Sister Jean’s guidance helped me navigate the pressures of being a student‑athlete. She always reminded us that our identity extends beyond the game.” Her impact was evident in the way the program maintained its integrity and character even as it captured national headlines.

Legacy and Reflection

The news of Sister Jean’s passing was met with an outpouring of grief and gratitude from across the country. Loyola University hosted a tribute service at the University’s Cathedral, where former players and coaches shared memories of her tireless support. Social media erupted with tributes—many recalling her iconic red cardigan as a symbol of perseverance, faith, and community resilience.

Her life’s work has been commemorated through various honors, including an honorary degree from Loyola and recognition by the Catholic Conference for her contributions to youth ministry. Local news outlets highlighted how she served as a role model for older generations and younger people alike, bridging gaps between faith and everyday life.

A Quiet Farewell

Sister Jean’s funeral was held at St. Mary’s Church on Chicago’s West Side, attended by over 300 guests, including former athletes, university officials, and community leaders. The service honored her as a “pillar of faith and a lifelong mentor.” The bishop delivering the eulogy reflected on her decades of service and her belief that “faith is a force that transcends the scoreboard, touching hearts in profound ways.”

Her death, while deeply mourned, is also a moment to celebrate a life that exemplified humility, perseverance, and unshakeable faith. As the world remembers Sister Jean, her legacy lives on in the players she guided, the students she nurtured, and the countless fans who found inspiration in her steadfast devotion.

The story of Sister Jean reminds us that greatness need not be measured solely by trophies or headlines; sometimes, it is measured by the quiet, daily acts of kindness and the steadfast belief that every person—no matter how old or young—can rise above their circumstances.