Social media reacts, honors chaplain

Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, longtime Loyola-Chicago basketball team chaplain, has died at the age of 106, the university announced on Oct. 9.

Sister Jean gained immense popularity within the college basketball world during the program’s Cinderella run in the 2018 NCAA Tournament.

In August, it was said in a statement that she was retiring from all university-related duties for health reasons.

The sports world paid tribute to Sister Jean upon the news of her death:

Loyola University Chicago is greatly saddened to confirm the death of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, BVM. This is a tremendous loss of someone who touched the lives of so many people. We appreciate everyone’s thoughts & prayers during this difficult time. Details to follow. pic.twitter.com/zPiMY1MsIu

— Loyola University Chicago (@LoyolaChicago) October 10, 2025

She was 106 years old and never had a bad day. The world has lost a true gem. And I have lost an amazing friend. So long Sister Jean. I will always treasure our friendship. https://t.co/tbZ4mddBkM

— Seth Davis (@SethDavisHoops) October 10, 2025

Will never forget Sister Jean’s 2018 Final Four press conference. A Hollywood scene! The Loyola Chicago run and the amount of attention she got while handling it all with grace and positivity was extraordinary. She’s part of an incredible March Madness chapter. RIP to a legend.

— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) October 10, 2025

I am so, so sad to hear about Sister Jean’s passing. I cherished our friendship we built during my time at Loyola and every conversation we had along the way.

Everything said and written about her was true. May her memory be a blessing. https://t.co/qP0EIBMsxY

— Nick Schultz (@NickSchultz_7) October 10, 2025

I just saw the news about Sister Jean. Tough to put into words just how much she meant to the Loyola community. Campus won’t be the same without her. pic.twitter.com/Y1uhiugAxz

— Nick Neumayer (@NickNeumayer) October 10, 2025

Rest in peace, Sister Jean. Genuinely a great person to talk to and I will cherish our 20-minute conversation forever 🙏🏻🙏🏻 https://t.co/qc3Iov8MQg

— Peter Wallis (@peterwallis_) October 10, 2025