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Following news of her passing, tributes poured in from around the world for Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, BVM, whose spirit, humor, and faith inspired millions.
Messages from national leaders, faith communities, and the sports world reflect the profound impact of her 106 years of life and ministry.
National leaders remember a ‘remarkable woman’
“March Madness won’t be the same without Sister Jean. Thinking about the Loyola University Chicago community and everyone who loved this remarkable woman.”
—Former President Barack Obama
“Sister Jean was a role model in Illinois—inspiring us to embrace our neighbors. As a lover of life, she taught us to channel positivity to keep us hopeful in times of need and kept that attitude all the way to a life well-lived at 106 years old. May her memory be a blessing.”
—Governor JB Pritzker
“She was more than a loyal fan and a coach. She was Loyola’s spiritual captain… While Sister Jean is no longer with us, her legacy of kindness and grace will push others to serve just as she did her entire life.”
—U.S. Senator Dick Durbin
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Sister Jean. Her faith, wisdom, and spirit were a bridge across generations, inspiring not just Loyola students and athletes, but all of us who believe in service, hope, and community.”
—U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi
A Chicago icon
“Sister Jean was a true embodiment of the Chicago spirit, living her deep Catholic faith with joy and compassion. Her legacy of love, service, and care for students, faculty, staff, and alumni will continue to resonate across Chicago.”
—Mayor Brandon Johnon
“We’re deeply saddened by Sister Jean’s passing. She was loved by Cubs fans and all who knew her.”
—Chicago Cubs
“A true icon of Chicago sports. Sending our love to the Loyola community.”
—Chicago Bears
Surrounding businesses, including Nisei Lounge and Murphy’s Bleachers, also displayed signs as a tribute to Sister Jean and well wishes for the Cubs in the playoffs.
From the court to the community
“Sister Jean, our beloved friend and inspiration, went home to the Lord today. She nurtured the mind and spirit of her students and all who came to know her with dedication, a firm belief in our faith, and a sharp sense of humor.”
—Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago
“I spoke with Sister Jean 12 days before she passed away. She was an amazing woman and a dear friend.”
—Seth Davis, sports journalist and coauthor of her memoir, Wake Up With Purpose! What I’ve Learned In My First Hundred Years
“My heart is sad…I’ll never meet someone who had such a positive attitude and poured that attitude into other people more than Sister Jean. And I was blessed to be her friend.”
—Porter Moser, former Loyola Men’s Basketball Head Coach (2011–2021)
“My wife and I had such a fabulous time in the 2018 Final Four with one of our all-time favorites—Sister Jean! Yes, Sister was as special as it gets. RIP!”
—Dick Vitale, ESPN
A global outpouring
Sister Jean’s life and legacy were celebrated in thousands of news stories across local, national, and international media. Major outlets, including The New York Times, Washington Post, CNN, ESPN, and BBC, shared the news, and reporters and commentators revisited her unforgettable presence courtside during Loyola’s 2018 Final Four run and her lifelong commitment to education, service, and community.
The Today Show, Good Morning America, and People magazine shared tributes highlighting her joy, humor, and love for the game.
Chicago reporters joined the remembrance services for Sister Jean with ABC7, Block Club Chicago, CBS News, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, FOX 32, NBC 5, WBBM, and WGN capturing her unique ability to unite the community in love, even after her passing.
As The Chicago Tribune noted, Sister Jean’s enduring legacy “will be bringing people together and the love she spread”—a sentiment echoed around the world.
Memories or reflections of Sister Jean can be shared using the online remembrance form.
