Virginia Halas McCaskey, the principal owner of the Chicago Bears for four decades, passed away at the age of 102. She inherited the team from her father, George Halas, in 1983 and guided the Bears with unwavering dedication until her passing. Known for her commitment to the team and community, McCaskey's influence extended far beyond the football field. Her leadership was marked by a focus on improving the lives of those in the Chicago area, particularly through initiatives like the Bears Care program.
McCaskey took ownership of the Bears following her father's death on October 31, 1983. Her tenure saw her balancing the roles of matriarch and business leader, always prioritizing the needs of players, coaches, staff, and fans in her decisions. Under her guidance, the Bears continued to be a family-centric organization, with her children playing significant roles in its operations. Her eldest son, Michael McCaskey, succeeded her as chairman until 2011, when his brother George McCaskey took over the position.
"Virginia Halas McCaskey, the matriarch of the Chicago Bears and daughter of George Halas, the founder of the NFL, leaves a legacy of class, dignity, and humanity," – NFL commissioner Roger Goodell
The Bears Care program, established by McCaskey in 2005, is perhaps one of her most enduring legacies. This initiative has distributed over $31.5 million in grants to 225 agencies, with a focus on improving the quality of life for disadvantaged children and their families in the Chicago area. Her commitment to community service exemplified her belief in using football as a platform for broader societal impact.
Virginia McCaskey's life was characterized by deep-rooted values of faith, family, and football. Her personal philosophy was evident in her actions and decisions throughout her tenure as principal owner. She famously did not serve dessert on Sundays when the Bears lost—a small but telling testament to her passion for the team.
"Faith, family, and football — in that order — were her north stars and she lived by the simple adage to always 'do the right thing.'" – NFL commissioner Roger Goodell
Her legacy is further enriched by her family's ongoing involvement with the Bears. She is survived by six sons—Patrick, Edward Jr., George, Richard, Brian, and Joseph—and three daughters—Ellen Tonquest, Mary, and Anne Catron. Her expansive family includes 21 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. This generational influence ensures that her values and vision continue to shape the Chicago Bears.
"We're just the recipients of a tremendous legacy. I use the word 'custodian,' and we want to pass it on the best way we can…. We've been working on that for a long time." – Virginia McCaskey
Virginia's leadership was not only about maintaining tradition; she was also forward-thinking in her aspirations for the team. Her dissatisfaction with mediocrity was evident in her relentless pursuit of excellence on behalf of both her family and fans.
"Virginia McCaskey has been on this Earth for eight of the Bears' nine championships, and she wants more," – George McCaskey
"She feels that it's been too long since the last [Super Bowl win], and that dissatisfaction is shared by her children, her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. She's fed up with mediocrity. She feels that she and Bears fans everywhere deserve better." – George McCaskey
Virginia McCaskey's enduring influence stems from a lifetime enriched by football history. At just nine years old, she attended the first playoff game in league history—a precursor to her lifelong connection with the sport. Her tenure as owner witnessed significant milestones for the team and left an indelible mark on its culture.
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