Virginia Halas McCaskey, the longtime owner of the Chicago Bears, passed away on February 6, 2025, at the age of 102. As the daughter of George Halas, one of the NFL’s founding fathers, she played a crucial role in preserving the Bears’ legacy while also contributing to the growth of the NFL and the city of Chicago.
A Lifelong Commitment to Football
Virginia McCaskey became the principal owner of the Chicago Bears in 1983 following her father’s passing. Despite not being a hands-on football executive, she was deeply committed to maintaining the Halas family’s legacy in the NFL. Under her leadership:
- The Bears remained a family-run franchise, ensuring that the values and traditions instilled by George Halas continued to shape the team.
- She was instrumental in securing new stadium deals and revenue streams, keeping the Bears financially competitive in the modern NFL.
- She maintained the team’s strong identity, insisting on defensive excellence and a blue-collar work ethic, which Chicago fans embraced.
Contributions to the NFL
Virginia Halas McCaskey was one of the most respected owners in NFL history and the longest-tenured. Her influence on the league included:
- Advocating for revenue sharing: She supported initiatives that allowed smaller-market teams to remain financially strong, helping ensure parity in the NFL.
- Promoting diversity: The Bears were among the teams that championed diversity in coaching and front-office positions during her tenure.
- Preserving NFL traditions: She was a key figure in maintaining the NFL’s historical integrity, keeping the legacy of early teams and players alive.
A Champion for Chicago
McCaskey’s love for Chicago extended far beyond football. She was deeply involved in community and charitable efforts, using the Bears’ platform to improve the city:
- She worked closely with Chicago charities, funding programs for underprivileged youth and families.
- She played a role in securing the Bears’ continued presence in Soldier Field, keeping the team in the heart of Chicago.
- The Bears Care Foundation, which provides support for education, health, and wellness programs, thrived under her leadership.
Her dedication to faith, family, and football made her an inspiration to many in Chicago and beyond.
A Lasting Legacy
Virginia Halas McCaskey was more than just an NFL owner—she was a guardian of football history and a pillar of the Chicago community. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her impact will be felt for generations.
Learn more at: https://www.chicagobears.com/news/bears-mourn-passing-of-owner-virginia-halas-mccaskey
The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day!