Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who became an iconic presence in college basketball, has tragically passed away at the age of 106, Loyola University Chicago announced.
“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,” the school wrote in their statement. “Details will follow regarding services to honor and celebrate the life of this remarkable woman. We ask that you keep Sr. Jean, her family, the Loyola community, and all those whose lives she touched in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Sister Jean’s fame grew during the Loyola-Chicago men’s basketball team’s Cinderella run to the Final Four in the 2018 NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship tournament. She was truly their No. 1 fan.
She joined the staff at the university in 1991, becoming an academic adviser and then a chaplain for the basketball team three years later.
Loyola President Mark C. Reed Speaks About Sister Jean’s Impact
“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 (via ESPN). “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.”
Tributes Pour In For Sister Jean
Sister Jean’s presence at Loyola Chicago games truly brought a smile to everyone’s faces, and many paid tribute to her following news of her passing.
NCAA March Madness: “Sister Jean has passed away at the age of 106. A legend that we will never forget.”
Chicago Cubs: We’re deeply saddened by Sister Jean’s passing. She was loved by Cubs fans and all who knew her. Our thoughts are with the Loyola community and everyone touched by this loss.
Barack Obama: “March Madness wonât be the same without Sister Jean. Thinking about the Loyola University Chicago community and everyone who loved this remarkable woman.”
NCAA SVP of Basketball Dan Gavitt: “Sister Jean lived a remarkable life of faith, service, and education. She positively impacted the lives of countless Loyola student-athletes and coaches as team chaplain for more than 30 years, leaving a legacy of kindness and belief in the greater good for all. Sister Jean will be remembered as a special saint of March Madness, gracing us as an integral part of Loyola’s march to the 2018 Final Four. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Loyola community. May she rest in eternal peace.”
ESPN’s Dick Vitale: “SISTER JEAN passed away at age 106 – she was so so loved – May Sister Jean RIP – I was honored & thrilled to have met her.”
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