CHICAGO, IL (LOOTPRESS) – Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the spirited nun who became a national sensation as the chaplain and biggest supporter of Loyola University Chicago’s men’s basketball team, died Thursday at the age of 106.
Her death was announced by the university.
A member of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Sister Jean—known affectionately to all by that name—was a beloved figure on campus long before she gained national fame during Loyola’s 2018 run to the NCAA Final Four.
Her faith, humor and boundless enthusiasm made her a symbol of inspiration far beyond the basketball court.
Sister Jean first joined Loyola in 1991 as a student adviser and planned to retire three years later. But when then-university president Father John Piderit asked her to stay on to help student-athletes with their academics, she agreed.
Soon after, she was named chaplain of the men’s basketball team.
She met weekly with players to discuss their studies and personal challenges, helping them with essays, time management and motivation.
Before each game, she led the team in prayer, asking for blessings on the hands that would shoot and rebound. She also studied opponents’ statistics and offered insights to the coaches—acting as both mentor and informal scout.
Sister Jean’s fame soared in 2018 when the Loyola Ramblers made a Cinderella run to the NCAA semifinals. Then 98 years old, she was interviewed by national media outlets and captured hearts with her wit and wisdom, offering encouragement to players who were nearly eight decades younger.
Even the COVID-19 pandemic did not keep her from supporting the team.
Though she stayed home during the 2020–21 regular season, she kept in touch with players through phone calls and emails. After being vaccinated, she traveled to Indianapolis to watch Loyola compete in the 2021 NCAA tournament, cheering from her wheelchair in the stands.
True to form, Sister Jean analyzed Loyola’s first-round opponent, Illinois, and predicted that the Ramblers could win by dominating the rebounds. The team followed her advice and defeated top-seeded Illinois 71–58 before being eliminated by Oregon State in the following round.
For generations of Loyola students and fans, Sister Jean was more than a chaplain—she was a mentor, motivator and the heart of the Ramblers.
Her legacy of faith, optimism and school spirit will continue to inspire long after her remarkable life has ended.
