Fans Saddened by Death of PGA Tour Legend and HBCU Trailblazer at 85
While we often celebrate the athletes who shine brightest in sports, we sometimes forget those who paved the way—especially when the odds were stacked against them.
On May 2, former PGA Tour star and trailblazer Jeff Dent passed away at the age of 85. The news was shared by his grandson in a heartfelt Facebook post.
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"I'm grateful I was able to have you as my grandfather... until the next time, Chinababy. Thank you for the foundation," wrote Dent's grandson, Andre.
The PGA Tour later confirmed that Dent had suffered a stroke, just one day after it was announced that Tiger Woods would design a par-3 course at 'The Patch'—a course in Georgia where Dent spent much of his time golfing over the years.
One of the greatest golfers of all time, Gary Player, responded to the news this week with a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter):
'Jim Dent was one of the finest gentlemen I've ever met. I was very surprised to hear that he passed away because I spoke to him just last week. Having met his son, who is a wonderful young man, he got Jim on the phone, and we were able to catch up. Jim's family can be proud of such a great gentleman and a wonderful golfer—an incredible talent whom I admired. He will be missed very much. Sending my condolences to his family."
Dent, known for his powerful drive off the tee, didn't earn his PGA Tour card until 1970, but his impact on the game remained immense. He helped create a path for African American golfers—many of whom had once been restricted to working as caddies—to compete professionally. His efforts opened doors for generations to come.
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He is remembered not only as a pioneer, but as one of the finest Black golfers of his era, who had a tremendous career on the Champions Tour, winning 12 times after the age of 50.
Golf fans reacted with sadness—but also immense pride—remembering Jeff Dent for his kindness, trailblazing spirit, and lasting impact on the game.
"What a great guy. He came to the volunteer party every year for what was then the Allianz in West Des Moines and hung out with all the volunteers," a fan said.
"I played with him multiple times and he was always a gentleman with serious game. His good deeds around Tampa will never be forgotten," another fan posted.
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Someone else added, "A true loss to the golfing world and to all who knew him. Jim Dent carried himself with class both on and off the course. My deepest condolences to his family — may he rest in peace."
One more fan commented, "Jim wasn't just a great golfer, he was the kind of man who made you feel better just by talking to him. Hearing about his passing is heartbreaking. Sending love and strength to his family."
Jim Dent tees off on the 9th hole of the Raven course during the second round of the Boeing Championships at Sandestin.© Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images
Jim Dent attended Paine College, a longtime HBCU in Augusta, Georgia. He faced significant hardship early in life—losing both of his parents by the age of 12—and was the fourth of six children.
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His legacy lives on through his son, Jim Dent Jr., who currently serves as the head golf professional at The Patch, the same course where his father honed much of his game.
"A lot of people will remember Jim Dent for how far he hit the ball, and he really did," said Miller Brady, president of the PGA Tour Champions. "Yet his long-term success, especially on our tour, proved Jim was more than just long off the tee."
Related: PGA Tour Star to Miss Next 3 Majors After Revealing Devastating Injury News
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