Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the cherished chaplain of Loyola Chicago’s men’s basketball team who rose to global fame during the school’s 2018 NCAA Tournament Cinderella run to the Final Four, has died at 106, the university announced Thursday night. Health challenges led her to step down from her active role in August, but she continued serving as an adviser during her final months.
Known for her faith, optimism, and enduring spirit, Sister Jean became a lasting figure in college basketball and a symbol of inspiration far beyond the court.
How Will Sister Jean’s Legacy Be Remembered?
Fans and the Loyola-Chicago community mourn the loss of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the university’s beloved basketball chaplain and national inspiration. Her passing marks the end of an era for the program and college basketball fans who embraced her story.
“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,” Loyola President Mark C. Reed said. “While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy. Her presence was a profound blessing for our entire community, and her spirit abides in thousands of lives. In her honor, we can aspire to share with others the love and compassion Sister Jean shared with us.”
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
Sister Jean became a household name during Loyola’s unforgettable run to the Final Four in the 2018 NCAA Tournament. Her constant courtside presence, pregame prayers, and uplifting words made her an international figure. Fans embraced her charm and authenticity, with one writing, “What a fantastic woman and fan. She brought joy to millions through her support and energy to the Loyola hoops team. Now she has box seats with the big guy.”
Another added, “Prayers for all those affected by her passing… She lived rent free in my head as far as sports goes, but can’t deny her impact.”
“College basketball will never be the same without her smiling face,” a fan quipped.
“🙏🙏🙏 Sister Jean was also known for creating detailed scouting reports for the team and sending personalized emails to players and coaches after each game, demonstrating her deep commitment to their success. Prayers for her loved ones,” another fan noted.
“May she rest in peace and may she be remembered for serving as the ambassador for Loyola Chicago during the 2018 NCAA 🏀 Tournament,” another remarked.
What Was Sister Jean’s Path to Loyola?
Born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, in San Francisco, she entered the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1937, taking the name Sister Jean Dolores. Her path led her to the order’s motherhouse in Dubuque, Iowa, where she took her vows before beginning a long career teaching in Catholic schools across Chicago and Southern California.
She also coached girls’ basketball before joining Mundelein College in the 1960s. When the college affiliated with Loyola in 1991, she helped guide students through the transition. By 1994, she began mentoring student-athletes to improve their academics, calling herself “the booster shooter.” That same year, she became chaplain of the men’s basketball team, which she described as “the most transformational and transcendent position” of her life.
“Sports are very important because they help develop life skills,” she once said. “And during those life skills, you’re also talking about faith and purpose.”
Over the decades, Sister Jean lived among students in campus dorms, hosted prayer sessions, and created programs connecting them with senior residents. Her influence stretched well beyond Loyola.
At 100, she received an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker declared her 103rd birthday an honorary day, and President Joe Biden sent her flowers and a proclamation on her 105th.