Virginia Halas McCaskey, the beloved principal owner of the Chicago Bears, passed away at the age of 102, leaving behind her remarkable legacy embedded deeply within the fabric of the NFL. The announcement of her death was made by the team on Thursday. Not only was she the daughter of George Halas, the founder of the Bears and integral to the establishment of the NFL, but she also guided the team following her father's passing, demonstrating unwavering commitment over more than four decades.
Born on January 5, 1923, McCaskey witnessed the NFL evolve from its nascent stages to the multi-billion dollar enterprise it is today. A statement released by her family expressed their collective sadness but found comfort knowing she lived "a long, full, faith-filled life" and is now with her late husband. Their message reiterated her dedication: “She guided the Bears for four decades and based every business decision on what was best for Bears players, coaches, staff and fans.”
McCaskey’s connection to the franchise ran deep. She inherited the team upon her father’s death on October 31, 1983, after her brother, George "Mugs" Halas Jr., passed away earlier. Following her ascension, the Bears experienced significant achievements, including their triumphant Super Bowl XX victory over the New England Patriots during the 1985 season.
Her tenure as football's matriarch saw the franchise achieve 14 playoff appearances and two Super Bowl appearances, the latter showcasing her dedication to maintaining the family legacy within the sport. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised her contributions, emphasizing her “class, dignity, and humanity,” and noting her commitment to faith, family, and football throughout her life.
Unlike many owners, McCaskey rarely sought the limelight, instead allowing her late husband, Ed McCaskey, and their children to take on more public roles within the organization. Ed McCaskey perished in 2003, but their partnership produced 11 children, many of whom remained active in the Bears' operations, demonstrating her commitment to keeping the family legacy alive.
Described fondly as the "matriarch of the Chicago Bears," Virginia had attended nearly every game throughout her life and engaged personally with players, embodying the spirit of the franchise she so deeply cherished. Her passion was noted by her family, who stated, “She had a passion for the team...celebrated every win with grace, quietly suffering every loss.”
Her leadership era coincided with the Bears' remarkable moments, including winning the NFC Championship game against the New Orleans Saints, earning her family the NFC championship trophy named after her father. The Bears’ identity remained tightly woven with her own, reflecting the family's enduring bond with the franchise.
While her influence remained prevalent, the operational control and the title of team president transitioned to her son, Michael McCaskey, until 2011, when her other son, George, took charge as chairman. Michael McCaskey himself had passed away from cancer five years ago, making her the last living reference to this iconic family involvement.
Despite changes within the team’s operations, McCaskey consistently advocated for the series of decisions made by her family, with the objective being the success of the Bears. Her views on maintaining family ownership were significant; she once stated her hope for the team to remain within the family’s hands for generations, even declaring optimistically about the future of the Bears under her family’s stewardship.
While the family continues to navigate ownership dynamics, questions about the controlling rights and ownership will be prevalent as the Bears move on without her. With her departure, speculation arises about how the franchise will proceed and if her legacy of dedication and commitment will carry on through her children and grandchildren.
Mrs. McCaskey’s life story is one of resilience, devotion, and longevity, characteristics she undoubtedly imparted to her descendants. Her time with the Bears has left indelible marks on the NFL and the Chicago community. Virginia Halas McCaskey was not just the custodian of the Bears; she was its heart.
She is survived by her sons Patrick, Edward Jr., George, Richard, Brian, and Joseph, and daughters Ellen, Mary, and Anne, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Each of them carries the torch of her legacy, embracing the values she upheld and the love she shared for the franchise.
Virginia McCaskey's passing closes the chapter on one of sports' most enduring family dynasties, but the legacy she built as the leader of the Chicago Bears and the love she held for her family and the sport will resonate for many years to come.