Beloved Ramblers Chaplain Sister Jean Dies After Decades of Service

The Loyola University Chicago community is mourning the loss of a beloved figure, Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who passed away on October 6th, 2025 at the age of 106. Sister Jean had served as the university's team chaplain for over 60 years, becoming a cherished and iconic presence for generations of Ramblers basketball players and fans.

Sister Jean first gained national attention in 2018 when the Ramblers made an unexpected run to the NCAA tournament's Final Four. Cameras frequently captured her pre-game prayers and enthusiastic sideline cheering, making her a viral sensation and a good luck charm for the team. In the years since, she remained a beloved figure, continuing to support the Ramblers until her retirement in August 2025 due to health concerns.

Though no longer on the sidelines, Sister Jean maintained an advisory role with the team in the final months of her life. Loyola's president, Mark C. Reed, praised her as "an invaluable source of wisdom and grace" who left a profound legacy on the university community. Her passing is a significant loss, but her spirit and impact will continue to be felt by all who knew her.