Virginia McCaskey, the enduring principal owner of the Chicago Bears, has passed away at the age of 102. Her leadership of the NFL franchise began in 1983 after she inherited it from her father, George Halas, who was also the team’s founder and its first coach.
The McCaskey family expressed their sorrow through a statement, noting that McCaskey lived a “full” life. They conveyed a sense of comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her late husband. The family highlighted her commitment to the team and the values she maintained, stating, “While we are sad, we are comforted knowing Virginia Halas McCaskey lived a long, full, faith-filled life and is now with the love of her life on earth.”
McCaskey’s influence on the Bears spanned four decades, where she focused on making decisions that benefitted not just the team, but also its players, coaches, staff, and devoted fans. Under her leadership, the Bears achieved significant success, including their sole Super Bowl victory in 1986 against the New England Patriots. This win was largely credited to the legendary “Monsters of the Midway,” the team’s renowned defense that had become a symbol of their identity.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell offered his condolences shortly after the news of her passing was announced. He praised McCaskey as the matriarch of the Bears and celebrated her legacy marked by class and dignity. Goodell stated, “Faith, family, and football – in that order – were her north stars, and she lived by the simple adage to always ‘do the right thing.'” He emphasized how deeply the Bears team meant to her and reflected on how her father would be proud of her contributions to the family legacy.
Virginia McCaskey was born Virginia Marion Halas in 1923 in Chicago and pursued business management studies at Drexel University in Philadelphia. She married Ed McCaskey in 1943, and together they raised a large family with 11 children. Ed McCaskey passed away in 2008, but Virginia’s stature as the longest-serving owner in U.S. major sports leagues was solidified by her steadfast leadership throughout the years.
Her son, George McCaskey, currently holds the position of chairman for the Bears, a role that was previously managed by his brother, Michael McCaskey. Virginia’s enduring commitment to the team and the values instilled by her father have shaped the franchise’s identity for generations.
As news of her passing spreads, tributes from fans and members of the NFL community reflect the deep respect held for McCaskey. Her dedication, passion, and strong moral compass have left an indelible mark on the Chicago Bears. Virginia McCaskey’s legacy will not only live on through her family but also through the rich history of one of football’s most storied franchises.
In reflecting on her impact, it is clear that McCaskey’s life was deeply intertwined with the essence of the Chicago Bears. The franchise will remember her as a guiding force and a symbol of resilience in the face of changing times within sports and society. As the football world mourns her loss, they also celebrate her remarkable journey and the contributions she made to the sport and community she loved.
Virginia McCaskey’s story is a testament to her unwavering dedication, both as a leader in sports and as a family figure, ensuring that her legacy will inspire future generations.
