Legendary golfer dies after suffering stroke at Augusta as PGA release statement
Jim Dent became a legendary golfer across his 50-year professional career within the game and the 12-time PGA Tour Champions winner has passed away after suffering from a stroke
Legendary golfer Jim Dent has died at the age of 85 after suffering from a stroke. The PGA confirmed the sad news with a lengthy statement.
They announced that Dent had suffered from a stroke just a day after it had been confirmed Augusta National had plans for Tiger Woods to design a par 3 course at The Patch. He passed away on May 2.
'A lot of people will remember Jim Dent for how far he hit the ball, and he really did. Yet his long-term success, especially on our Tour, proved Jim was more than just long off the tee,' said PGA TOUR Champions President Miller Brady. 'Jim was as easy going as he was competitive, and he added so much during his time as a PGA TOUR Champions player. We offer our sincere condolences to his entire family.'
Dent's grandson also posted some kind words on social media alongside a heartwarming video. He wrote: 'I'm grateful I was able to have you as my grandfather…… until the next time Chinababy. Thank you for the foundation.'
Dent's association with golf started during his early years as a caddy at Augusta, where he eventually worked on the Masters. He was inducted into the Caddie Hall of Fame in 2022.
'We are honored to welcome Jim Dent as the newest member of the Caddie Hall of Fame,' said Jeff Harrison, WGA senior vice president of advisory and special initiatives. 'Jim embodies the gold standard of hard work and professionalism, and we are inspired by how he utilized his time as a youth caddie to propel himself to the highest level in the game of golf.'
Dent then got a chance with a club for the first time at the municipal course known as The Patch. He secured a qualifying card for the PGA Tour card through qualifying school in 1970.
Dent never met the qualifying criteria to play at the Masters but made the cut in eight of the 11 majors he played - six at the PGA Championship, five at the U.S. Open. But he was more known for the famous length he could get on his drives.
'As a man of color, I thank Mr. Dent for what he did,' Ira Miller, general manager of Augusta Municipal GC told the Augusta Chronicle. 'He paved the way so I could be in this position. He paved the way for us all.'
Dent's legacy is being continued by son Joseph, who has also embarked on a career within golf himself. 'He has encouraged me to always follow my dream, to do what I love,' Joseph said before Dent's death. 'His advice has been simple – you have to put in the work. It's his fundamental belief.'
'I have read so many stories about him and while I can only imagine what it was like for him, I know he had to roll with the punches,' Joseph added. 'That's why I admire him and why he inspires me. He had a belief in himself. He let his clubs do the talking.'
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