Virginia Halas McCaskey, longtime owner of the Chicago Bears and a pioneering figure in the National Football League, died on February 6, 2025, at the age of 102. As the daughter of Bears founder George Halas, she was deeply connected to the origins of professional football and played a critical role in maintaining the legacy of one of the league’s most historic franchises. Her life testified to faith, family, and football values, which she cherished until her dying breath.
Life Moulded by Football and Family
Born on January 5, 1923, in Chicago, Illinois, Virginia Marion Halas was introduced to football at an early age. Her father, George Halas, was instrumental in establishing the NFL in 1920, purchasing the franchise that would later become the Chicago Bears for just $100. As a young girl, she was present at pivotal moments in football history, including the 1925 barnstorming tour with Red Grange, which helped popularize the sport.
A Pioneering Woman in the NFL
For most of her childhood and early adulthood, Virginia never thought to run the Chicago Bears. That job was for the younger brother, George “Mugs” Halas Jr., who worked closely with their father in the team’s front office. But Mugs’ sudden death in 1979 changed everything. When George Halas Sr. died in 1983, Virginia took control of the franchise, becoming one of the few female owners in professional sports at the time.
The Chicago Bears Under Virginia McCaskey
One of the biggest wins by the Bears during her tenure was when they won Super Bowl XX in January 1986. With head coach Mike Ditka at the helm and having a fierce defense, the Bears forever etched their names into NFL history as they defeated the New England Patriots with a score of 46-10. One of the greatest moments for her would be accepting the NFC Championship Trophy; it bore her father’s name.
She was vocal about her opinions regarding the performance of the team. In 2014, when the Bears had a dismal 5-11 season, her son George McCaskey, who had recently become the chairman, famously said to reporters, “She’s pissed off.” Although Virginia later clarified that she never used those words, it was clear that she had high expectations for the team her father built.
Commitment to Community and Faith
Beyond football, Virginia was deeply devoted to her faith and philanthropy. A devout Catholic, she attended Mass regularly and often spoke about how her beliefs guided her decisions. She was also heavily involved in Bears Care, the team’s charitable foundation, which provides grants to organizations supporting healthcare, education, and youth initiatives in the Chicago area.
Virginia’s philanthropy did not stop at the Bears organization. She and her family regularly donated to Catholic charities and community programs, which mirrored the same spirit of generosity her father showed throughout his life. Even in her later years, she was active in charitable work, making sure that the Bears legacy was not just about football but also about giving back.
The Future of the Chicago Bears After Virginia McCaskey
With Virginia’s passing, questions arise about the future of the Chicago Bears. The McCaskey family currently owns approximately 80% of the franchise, and her son, George McCaskey, has been chairman since 2011. While the NFL requires teams to have a clear succession plan, details regarding the Bears’ long-term ownership structure remain private.
According to reports, Virginia had devised a plan of keeping the Bears in the family. She ensured that the team would remain with the McCaskey family even in her life. Whenever her future regarding the franchise was concerned, she said, “it will stay with the family ’til the second coming,” and this was spoken by her son, Pat McCaskey long ago.
Saluting a Football Legend
Virginia Halas McCaskey was more than just an NFL owner—she was a link to the league’s very foundation. She lived through every major moment in professional football history, from the formation of the NFL to the advent of the Super Bowl era and beyond. Her influence stretched far beyond the Bears organization, as she paved the way for greater female leadership in professional sports.
Even in her later years, she remained involved in the team, frequently attending games and league meetings. Fans often saw her sedan parked outside the team’s facility with a bumper sticker that read, “Pray the Rosary,” a testament to her faith and steadfast character. Virginia McCaskey has left behind a legacy of 11 children, 21 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. It is one thing to be thrown into the cauldron, but her love for the Chicago Bears is extraordinary.
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