Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt , the cherished chaplain of Loyola University Chicago ’s men’s basketball team, passed away on October 9, 2025, at the remarkable age of 106. Known globally for her role during Loyola Chicago’s improbable 2018 Final Four run, Sister Jean became a symbol of hope and faith. She stepped down from her official duties earlier this year due to health concerns but continued serving as an adviser and inspiration to students until the end.
Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt’s cause of death
While the official cause of death of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt is not reported, many believe it was because of health complications due to old age. Born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, Sister Jean joined the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1937.
She began teaching at various Catholic schools before arriving at Loyola Chicago in 1991, initially at Mundelein College. By 1994, she became an academic adviser for the men’s basketball team and later transitioned into the role of team chaplain, providing spiritual guidance, mentorship, and encouragement for three decades.
Loyola President Mark C. Reed described her as “an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff. 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.”
Sister Jean’s national fame skyrocketed during the 2018 NCAA Tournament when she cheered courtside for the 11-seed Ramblers. She offered prayers before each game, sent personalized notes to players, and quickly became a media sensation.
Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt’s legacy beyond basketball
Beyond her basketball role, Sister Jean authored a memoir, Wake Up with Purpose! What I’ve Learned in My First 100 Years, in 2023, sharing spiritual lessons and life wisdom.
She created programs like SMILE (Students Moving Into the Lives of the Elderly) and maintained weekly prayer groups for students, impacting countless lives off the court. Recognition poured in over her lifetime: she received an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis on her 100th birthday, had a CTA plaza named after her at Loyola, and earned proclamations from Governor J.B. Pritzker, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, and even President Joe Biden.
Sister Jean is survived by her sister-in-law Jeanne Tidwell and niece Jan Schmidt. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the university. Her legacy, both at Loyola and in the wider world, is one of faith, dedication, and unwavering support for the communities she touched.
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Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt’s cause of death
While the official cause of death of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt is not reported, many believe it was because of health complications due to old age. Born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, Sister Jean joined the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1937.
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
She began teaching at various Catholic schools before arriving at Loyola Chicago in 1991, initially at Mundelein College. By 1994, she became an academic adviser for the men’s basketball team and later transitioned into the role of team chaplain, providing spiritual guidance, mentorship, and encouragement for three decades.
Loyola President Mark C. Reed described her as “an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff. 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.”
Sister Jean’s national fame skyrocketed during the 2018 NCAA Tournament when she cheered courtside for the 11-seed Ramblers. She offered prayers before each game, sent personalized notes to players, and quickly became a media sensation.
Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt’s legacy beyond basketball
Beyond her basketball role, Sister Jean authored a memoir, Wake Up with Purpose! What I’ve Learned in My First 100 Years, in 2023, sharing spiritual lessons and life wisdom.
She created programs like SMILE (Students Moving Into the Lives of the Elderly) and maintained weekly prayer groups for students, impacting countless lives off the court. Recognition poured in over her lifetime: she received an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis on her 100th birthday, had a CTA plaza named after her at Loyola, and earned proclamations from Governor J.B. Pritzker, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, and even President Joe Biden.
Sister Jean is survived by her sister-in-law Jeanne Tidwell and niece Jan Schmidt. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the university. Her legacy, both at Loyola and in the wider world, is one of faith, dedication, and unwavering support for the communities she touched.
Also Read: Luka Doncic admits a Britney Spears hit is his secret weapon for pre-game focus and adrenaline
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