Katie Nagle, a beloved figure within the Chicago Bears organization and a cherished friend to many, has passed away after a battle with complications from a rare condition caused by a medication she was taking as post-treatment for breast cancer. Her loss is deeply felt by those who knew her, both personally and professionally. Eberflus opened his press conference by offering prayers and condolences to the family of long-time Bears executive assistant Katie Nagle, who passed away Monday morning.
Nagle worked for the Bears since 2002, serving as an assistant to team president and CEO Ted Phillips and more recently chairman George H. McCaskey. In 2015, Nagle was the club’s first recipient of the Virginia McCaskey Award, which is given to a Bears employee who has demonstrated the characteristics and values of Mrs. McCaskey: grace, humility, loyalty and dedication. The winner also is someone who not only exceeds the highest standards of achievement, but whose work sets them apart from co-workers.
Katie’s kindness and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. From her days as a high school student at Sacred Heart of Mary, where she became close friends with the author’s sister, Katie was known for her gentle and tolerant nature. Despite being five years older, she always showed kindness to her friend’s younger sibling, a gesture that has remained in the author’s heart ever since.
Katie’s professional life was equally distinguished. She began her career with the Chicago Bears in 2002, serving as an executive assistant, first to team president and CEO Ted Phillips, and more recently to chairman George H. McCaskey. Over her two decades with the organization, she became an integral part of the Bears family, known for her unwavering dedication, loyalty, and grace. Her work ethic and personal qualities set her apart, earning her the respect and admiration of her colleagues.
In 2015, Katie’s contributions were formally recognized when she became the inaugural recipient of the Virginia McCaskey Award. This prestigious award is given to a Bears employee who embodies the characteristics and values of Mrs. McCaskey: grace, humility, loyalty, and dedication. Katie not only met but exceeded these high standards, making her a standout member of the organization.
The impact of her passing was evident during a press conference held by the Chicago Bears on Monday morning. Head Coach Matt Eberflus began by offering prayers and condolences to Katie’s family, emphasizing the profound loss felt by everyone in the organization. “What a kind soul. Beautiful woman,” Eberflus said, acknowledging the deep sorrow that accompanies her passing and expressing the team’s collective grief as they remember her life and legacy.
Katie Nagle will be remembered as a beautiful soul who touched the lives of many with her kindness, grace, and dedication. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, both within the Chicago Bears organization and beyond.