Beloved sports figure Sister Jean has died at the age of 106.
Loyola University Chicago announced the news on Thursday night that Sister Jean — full name Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt — had died.
“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,” the school said in its statement.
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 was born in San Francisco, Calif., in 1919 and became a nun at a young age. She was hired by Loyola in 1991 and became the team chaplain for the school’s men’s basketball team in 1994.
Sister Jean became famous nationally in 2018 when the Loyola Ramblers made a surprising run to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament. Her involvement with the program at the age of 98 led to multiple stories.
Upon turning 105, Sister Jean was asked for her secrets to living a long life. She told the Chicago Sun-Times that “loving others and God, taking care of your mind and body, and interacting with young people” were the keys.
Here are some of the tributes she received upon her death:
I was lucky enough to spend 4 years around her, been inspired by her pregame pep talks & been able to witness what it means to be a genuinely good & caring human being.
— David Gale (@Dgale14) October 10, 2025
Very very sad day. Sister Jean will missed https://t.co/OuyJ7K6EDv
She was 106 years old and never had a bad day. The world has lost a true gem. And I have lost an amazing friend. So long Sister Jean. I will always treasure our friendship. https://t.co/tbZ4mddBkM
— Seth Davis (@SethDavisHoops) October 10, 2025
Will never forget Sister Jean’s 2018 Final Four press conference. A Hollywood scene! The Loyola Chicago run and the amount of attention she got while handling it all with grace and positivity was extraordinary. She’s part of an incredible March Madness chapter. RIP to a legend.
— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) October 10, 2025
