Virginia Halas McCaskey Death & Obituary: The Chicago Bears and the NFL community are mourning the loss of Virginia Halas McCaskey, the beloved owner of the Chicago Bears, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 102. As the NFL’s longest-tenured owner, her leadership spanned decades, leaving a lasting impact on the team and the league.
Early Life and Family Background
Born in 1923, Virginia was the daughter of George S. Halas, the founder of the Chicago Bears and one of the architects of the NFL. Raised in a football-centric environment, she grew up witnessing the growth of the Bears into one of the league’s most storied franchises.
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Leading the Chicago Bears
Virginia McCaskey assumed control of the Bears after her father’s passing in 1983. For over four decades, she guided the team with integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the players, coaches, staff, and loyal fans. Her leadership was pivotal in maintaining the franchise’s core values and its competitive spirit.
Her son, Michael McCaskey, served as team chairman from 1999 until 2011, followed by another son, George McCaskey, who continues in that role. Virginia’s commitment to family was reflected not only in her personal life but also in the family-oriented culture she nurtured within the Bears organization.
Visitation and Funeral Arrangements
The visitation for Virginia McCaskey will be held on Tuesday, February 11, from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner Street, Des Plaines, Illinois. A funeral mass will follow on Wednesday, February 12, with a private entombment scheduled afterward.
Tributes and Condolences
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed heartfelt condolences, describing Virginia as “the heart and soul of the Chicago Bears.” He highlighted her values of grace, integrity, and compassion, noting that her leadership style embodied the principles of faith, family, and football.
The McCaskey family released a statement acknowledging their profound grief, tempered by the comfort of knowing Virginia lived a long, fulfilling life. They expressed solace in her reunion with her late husband, Edward McCaskey, to whom she was deeply devoted.
Virginia McCaskey’s Enduring Legacy
Virginia’s passing marks the end of an era in the NFL. However, her legacy will live on through the Bears organization, the league she helped shape, and the countless lives she touched. Her contributions to the NFL and her unwavering commitment to the Chicago Bears will forever be remembered.
Conclusion
As the football community and fans around the world reflect on Virginia Halas McCaskey’s extraordinary life, we celebrate her achievements, her leadership, and her devotion to the Chicago Bears. Her spirit will continue to inspire future generations, both within the Bears organization and across the NFL.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the McCaskey and Halas families, the Chicago Bears organization, and Bears fans everywhere as they honor the remarkable life of Virginia Halas McCaskey.