Virginia Halas McCaskey, born on January 5, 1923, in Chicago, Illinois, was the principal owner of the Chicago Bears, a legacy she inherited from her father, George Halas, the team’s founder. Her life was deeply intertwined with the history and evolution of the National Football League (NFL), making her a significant figure in American sports.
Early Life and Family Background
As the eldest child of George Halas and Minnie Bushing Halas, Virginia was introduced to football from a young age. Her father, affectionately known as “Papa Bear,” was instrumental in establishing the Bears and shaping the early NFL. Virginia’s early experiences included attending games and witnessing pivotal moments in football history. She attended Drexel University, majoring in business management, with aspirations to serve as her father’s secretary. During her time at Drexel, she was an active member of various organizations, including the local Pi Sigma Gamma sorority and the Newman Club.
Marriage and Family
In 1943, Virginia married Ed McCaskey, a World War II veteran and jazz musician. Together, they had 11 children, fostering a large family that would become deeply involved in the Bears’ operations. Their partnership was marked by a shared commitment to family, faith, and football. Ed later served as the chairman and treasurer of the Bears, working alongside Virginia to uphold the family’s football legacy.
Becoming the Bears’ Principal Owner
Following the death of her father in 1983, Virginia assumed the role of principal owner of the Chicago Bears. This transition was unexpected, as her younger brother, George “Mugs” Halas Jr., had been the anticipated successor before his untimely death in 1979. Under Virginia’s ownership, the Bears achieved significant milestones, including winning Super Bowl XX in 1986. Her tenure was characterized by a deep respect for her father’s legacy and a commitment to the team’s success.
Leadership and Legacy
Virginia’s leadership style was often described as humble and behind-the-scenes. She prioritized the well-being of players, staff, and fans, fostering a family-oriented culture within the organization. Her dedication to the team’s success was evident in her decisions and the trust she placed in her family members to manage various aspects of the franchise. Her son, Michael McCaskey, served as team president from 1983 to 1999, followed by her other son, George McCaskey, who became chairman in 2011.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Beyond her role with the Bears, Virginia was known for her philanthropic efforts. She established the Bears Care program, which has granted over $31.5 million to support various initiatives, reflecting her commitment to giving back to the community. Her faith played a significant role in her life, guiding her charitable endeavors and interactions with others.
A Century of Life and Football
On January 5, 2023, Virginia celebrated her 100th birthday, marking a century of life deeply connected to the evolution of professional football. Her unique perspective encompassed witnessing the NFL’s growth from its early days to becoming a major American institution. She often reflected on her experiences, sharing memories of significant events and figures in football history.
Passing and Reflection
Virginia Halas McCaskey passed away on February 6, 2025, at the age of 102. Her death marked the end of an era for the Chicago Bears and the NFL. She is survived by her large family, including eight sons, three daughters, 21 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Her legacy is remembered as one of dedication, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the sport she loved.
Conclusion
Virginia Halas McCaskey’s life was a testament to her devotion to family, faith, and football. As the matriarch of the Chicago Bears, she upheld her father’s legacy while making her own indelible mark on the franchise. Her leadership, philanthropy, and personal integrity left a lasting impact on the Bears organization and the broader NFL community.