Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, an iconic figure in college basketball, passed away at the age of 106. Her legacy as the chaplain for the Loyola University Chicago men’s basketball team made her a beloved character within the sport.
Sister Jean: A March Madness Icon
Born as Delores Bertha Schmidt in 1919, Sister Jean grew up in a devout Catholic family in San Francisco. Her lifelong commitment to education and faith guided her to teach at various Catholic schools across California and Chicago. Eventually, she became the chaplain for Loyola’s men’s basketball team, where she positively impacted countless student-athletes.
A Celebrated Journey
Sister Jean gained international fame in 2018 when the Loyola Ramblers made an impressive run to the NCAA’s Final Four. At 98, she was seen cheering for her team in her wheelchair, donning the maroon and gold of Loyola. Her enthusiasm resonated with the players and fans alike, inspiring a generation with her spirit and wisdom.
Legacy of Leadership
Through her role, Sister Jean provided spiritual guidance, encouraged her players, and even created scouting reports for upcoming games. She shared vital life lessons about humor and hard work. Tom Welch, a player who joined the team in 2019, admired her willpower, stating, “If she can do it, there’s no reason I can’t.”
Influence Beyond the Court
- Sister Jean’s impact extended far beyond basketball. She authored a memoir titled Wake Up With Purpose! What I’ve Learned in My First Hundred Years, where she reflected on maintaining a youthful spirit.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sister Jean continued to connect with the players, calling and emailing them to offer her support.
Her influence led to a surge of merchandise featuring her likeness during the Ramblers’ historic tournament run. Sister Jean became a cultural phenomenon, appearing in numerous media interviews and even hosting press conferences ahead of games.
A Memorable Farewell
In honor of her contributions, Loyola University Chicago inducted Sister Jean into its Athletic Hall of Fame in 2017. Following her 103rd birthday, the university renamed a plaza near campus to recognize her as “the home of the world-famous Sister Jean.”
With her passing, Sister Jean leaves behind a rich legacy woven into the fabric of college basketball and the hearts of all who knew her. As she expressed before her death, her simple wish was to reunite with friends in heaven.
