Virginia McCaskey, the long-time owner of the Chicago Bears and daughter of team founder George Halas, has passed away at the age of 102. Her family confirmed her death on Thursday, marking the end of an era for the iconic NFL franchise.
Since inheriting the Bears after her father’s death on October 31, 1983, McCaskey maintained a low profile while guiding the team through both triumphs and challenges. “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,” her family stated. They highlighted her commitment to making decisions that prioritized the well-being of players, coaches, staff, and fans alike.
In keeping with the Halas family tradition, McCaskey ensured that the Bears remained under family ownership. She entrusted operational responsibilities to her eldest son, Michael McCaskey, who held the title of president until his brother, George McCaskey, took over in 2011. Under her stewardship, the Bears celebrated a Super Bowl victory in 1986 and made a second appearance in 2007.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell paid tribute to McCaskey, stating, “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.” He noted that her guiding principles were faith, family, and football, reflecting her deep commitment to the sport and its community. Goodell expressed condolences to the McCaskey and Halas families, as well as to Bears fans worldwide.
McCaskey’s influence on the team extended beyond ownership; four of her sons—George, Patrick, Brian, and Ed—currently serve on the Bears’ board of directors. Forbes recently estimated the team’s value at $6.4 billion, underscoring the significant legacy she helped build.
Initially, McCaskey did not anticipate becoming the team’s owner. Her brother, George “Mugs” Halas Jr., was expected to take over, but his untimely death in 1979 changed the family’s trajectory. Following her father’s passing, McCaskey’s late husband, Ed McCaskey, became chairman, while she later passed control to their eldest son, Michael.
In a rare interview in 2006, McCaskey reflected on her family’s legacy, stating, “I think it’s important that all of our family remembers that we really haven’t done anything to earn this. We’re just the recipients of a tremendous legacy.” She viewed her role as a custodian of the team’s history and values, committed to preserving it for future generations.
While her official title was secretary to the board of directors, McCaskey occasionally made key decisions regarding the team’s direction. Despite her generally reserved demeanor, she was known to express her disappointment during tough seasons, such as the recent 5-11 record.
McCaskey’s passion for the Bears was evident in her family traditions. It is said that dessert was off the table on Sundays following a Bears loss. She fondly recalled attending the first playoff game in NFL history when she was just nine years old, a testament to her lifelong dedication to the sport.
That historic game took place in 1932, when the Bears faced the Portsmouth Spartans in a tie for first place. The league decided to hold a playoff game indoors at the Chicago Stadium, where the Bears emerged victorious with a score of 9-0, playing on a shortened field.
Reflecting on that day, McCaskey mentioned, “I remember I didn’t save my ticket stub, but one of my cousins had saved his.” The nostalgia of that moment remained with her throughout her life, demonstrating her deep connection to the team’s history.
McCaskey is survived by her large family, including her sons Patrick, Edward Jr., George, Richard, Brian, and Joseph, as well as her daughters Ellen, Mary, and Anne. She also leaves behind 21 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren, solidifying her legacy within the Bears organization and beyond.
