The passing of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the beloved Loyola-Chicago Ramblers chaplain, has prompted a wave of tributes, none more poignant than that of former head coach Porter Moser, who fondly remembered her enduring spirit and profound influence on his life and the entire community.
The sports world is mourning the loss of a true icon, Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, who passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the remarkable age of 106. Known affectionately as Sister Jean, she was far more than just a super fan; she was the spiritual heart of the Loyola University Chicago men’s basketball program, a figure whose warmth and wisdom transcended the game.
Among the many tributes, the message from University of Oklahoma men’s basketball coach Porter Moser, who spent a decade at the helm of the Ramblers, resonated deeply with fans and former players alike. Moser’s tenure included the two magical NCAA Tournament runs that catapulted Sister Jean to international fame, making her an ever-present figure in her signature maroon and gold scarf.
Moser’s Heartfelt Remembrance
Moser took to social media on Friday, October 10, to express his grief and gratitude. “As we all mourn the death of our dear friend Sister Jean, my heart is sad but also filled with joy and gratitude for my time spent with her and the impact she had on my life and so many others,” Moser wrote. His words underscored the personal connection many felt with Sister Jean.
He continued, highlighting her defining characteristics: “She had time for everyone. She had a kind word for everyone. She listened and gave encouragement to everyone. She had true self purpose to help others. What a legacy to leave behind.” Moser vowed to carry her spirit forward, stating, “I will be talking about Sister Jean for years to come. Her unparalleled positivity and energy for life. To the best of my ability, I will be sharing her purpose to help others.” This commitment speaks volumes about the lasting impression she left.
Sister Jean’s Unforgettable Journey with the Ramblers
Sister Jean’s journey with Loyola-Chicago began long before their national spotlight moments. Born Dolores Bertha Schmidt in San Francisco in 1919, she joined the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM) in 1937. She arrived in Chicago in 1961, eventually transitioning into student advising when Mundelein College merged with Loyola in 1991. She became the team chaplain in 1994 and served until her retirement just this past summer.
Her role was unique and impactful. She resided in a freshman dormitory, maintained an office in the student center where young adults sought her counsel, and even sent former coach Moser emails with scouting reports after every game. “There is no human like her,” Moser once remarked, according to ESPN. Her deep knowledge of the game and sharp wit were appreciated by all who knew her.
The 2017-18 season was a turning point. After struggling for decades, Moser’s Ramblers made an improbable run to the Final Four, their first since 1963. Sister Jean, then 98, became a national celebrity, leading pre-game prayers and greeting players with hugs after victories. Her presence was a comforting, inspiring constant throughout their Cinderella story, which included upset wins over Miami, Tennessee, Nevada, and Kansas State.
The magic continued into 2021, Moser’s final season with the program, as the Ramblers again captured national attention with a run to the Sweet Sixteen, highlighted by a stunning upset of No. 1 seed Illinois. At 101 years old and vaccinated, Sister Jean was right there, offering her insights, such as her scouting report advising players on converting rebounds against an opponent who made about “50% of layups and 30% of its 3-pointers.”
A Life Dedicated to Purpose and Community
Sister Jean’s influence extended far beyond basketball. She was involved in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, a dedicated educator, and a mentor to generations of students. Loyola University Chicago President Mark C. Reed emphasized her broad impact, stating, “In many roles at Loyola over the course of more than 60 years, Sister Jean was an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff.”
Her commitment to helping others was evident in programs like “Students Moving Into the Lives of the Elderly (SMILE),” which she initiated. Recognition for her remarkable life included an honorary doctorate from Loyola in 2016, induction into the Ramblers’ Hall of Fame, a special apostolic blessing from Pope Francis for her 100th birthday, and a proclamation from President Joe Biden on her 105th birthday. The city of Chicago even renamed the Loyola CTA station plaza in her honor, a testament to her widespread adoration.
Fans across the globe will forever cherish the memory of Sister Jean, not just for her courtside prayers and maroon and gold scarf, but for the unwavering spirit of hope and positivity she embodied. Her 2023 memoir, “Wake Up with Purpose!: What I’ve Learned in My First Hundred Years,” co-authored with CBS college basketball analyst Seth Davis, encapsulated her philosophy. Davis remembered her fondly, saying, “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.”
Sister Jean’s passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy of compassion, encouragement, and purpose will continue to inspire. As Porter Moser and countless others remember, she truly had time and a kind word for everyone, leaving behind a footprint of joy that will resonate for years to come. Her unwavering faith and competitive spirit made her a beacon for the Loyola-Chicago Ramblers and a beloved figure in the hearts of basketball fans worldwide, a legacy officially recognized by Loyola University Chicago itself upon her passing.
