Key Takeaways:

• Virginia Halas McCaskey, owner of the Chicago Bears, has died at the age of 102.
• She inherited the team from her father, George Halas, and led it for over four decades.
• McCaskey was characterized by her dedication to the team and its players, prioritizing their welfare above business gains.
• She witnessed multiple championship victories, including the Bears’ only Super Bowl win in 1986.
• Her legacy includes a commitment to community and charitable work through Bears Care.

Virginia McCaskey, renowned for her quiet yet steadfast leadership of the Chicago Bears, died on Thursday at the age of 102. The team announced the news, commemorating her life and contributions. “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,” stated her family. Over her four decades as the team's principal owner, McCaskey made all business decisions with the well-being of players, coaches, staff, and fans in mind, as reported by the Associated Press and USA Today.

McCaskey inherited the franchise from her father, a pivotal figure in the NFL's founding, after his death in 1983. Under her ownership, the Bears experienced significant moments, including their Super Bowl victory in January 1986. Reflecting on her journey, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell noted her legacy of “class, dignity, and humanity,” emphasizing her deep-seated values of faith, family, and football.

Throughout her life, McCaskey maintained a low profile while attending nearly every Bears game and fostering a family-like bond with players. Former players and their families often spoke of her kindness, proving she was more than a team owner; she was a matriarch. Notably, she was a champion for charitable initiatives through Bears Care, which has contributed substantial funds for community projects, as covered by Independent and The New York Times.

As a testament to her impact, her son George McCaskey, who has been chairman since 2011, testified to her integral role in navigating the team through challenging times, including the decision to find competent leadership during periods of struggle. The football community will remember McCaskey not only as a team owner but as a steadfast supporter who always prioritized love for the team and its fans.Source