Jeff Babineau, a longtime golf writer and former editor of Golfweek, passed away on December 10, 2024, at his home in Oviedo, Florida.
Jeff was 62 years old. He is survived by his wife, Jane, and three sons: Keith, Derek, and Luke.
Babineau’s career highlights
- Extensive Major Championship Coverage: Babineau covered more than 100 major championships across both men’s and women’s golf tours, showcasing his deep engagement with the sport.
- Ryder Cup Coverage: He wrote about 12 Ryder Cups, providing in-depth analysis and storytelling around this prestigious team event.
- Golfweek Career: Babineau joined Golfweek in 1998, where he served in multiple capacities, including as a senior writer, deputy editor, and editor from 2008 to 2014. His work there earned him numerous awards.
- Orlando Sentinel: His career began at the Orlando Sentinel in 1986, where he covered not only golf but also the NFL, NHL, and college sports, demonstrating his versatility as a sports journalist.
- Freelance Work: After leaving Golfweek in 2017, Babineau freelanced, working for prestigious organizations like Augusta National, the PGA Tour, and the PGA of America, further cementing his reputation as a leading voice in golf journalism.
- Golf Writers Association of America (GWAA): He was president of the GWAA from 2015 to 2017 and remained secretary until his passing, indicating his significant involvement and leadership in golf journalism.
- Awards and Recognition: Babineau won several awards for his writing, particularly noted for his feature stories and insightful coverage of the game.
- Impact on Golf Journalism: Known for his storytelling, humor, and empathy, Babineau was seen as a mentor to many in the field, influencing the next generation of golf writers.
- Community Involvement: Beyond writing, he served on the board of directors for Folds of Honor, reflecting his commitment to community service and support for military families.
- Legacy in Golf: His coverage of Tiger Woods, witnessing all 15 of Woods’ major victories, and his presence at crucial moments in golf history left an indelible mark on how the sport was documented and perceived.
As much as I enjoyed reading Jeff Babineau’s work, I enjoyed listening to him tell a story even more. He was always the funniest guy in the room. Can’t believe I won’t see him next week at the PNC or next month at the TOC or anytime after that. It’s absolutely shocking to lose… pic.twitter.com/4aajXw3EA8
— Beth Ann Nichols (@GolfweekNichols) December 10, 2024
These highlights underline Babineau’s profound impact on golf journalism, his dedication to the sport, and his role in shaping the narrative around golf’s biggest stars and events.
Tributes from the golf and journalism communities poured in after his death, highlighting his friendly nature, his storytelling prowess, and the impact he had on both players and fellow journalists.
Jeff Babineau covered golf’s biggest events and players for decades, bringing fans closer to the sport through his insightful writing and rich storytelling. GOLF Channel will pay tribute to Jeff and his contributions to the game of golf within its news programming this week. https://t.co/nvNfetvrnM
— Golf Channel PR (@GolfChannelPR) December 10, 2024
Jeff Babineau was a giver in a world of takers. He was ready to teach, if you were willing to listen to his soft, unmistakeable New England accent about the craft of writing and well-anything. How to be a present dad-you name it. He was so kind to me as I entered the golf beat 12… https://t.co/6lS15pAF93 pic.twitter.com/yfzpy3RyqA
— Garrett Johnston (@JohnstonGarrett) December 10, 2024
It is with deep sadness we share that 13 year Folds member and iconic golf writer Jeff Babineau has gone to be with the Lord. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. We love you “Kbabes” & will march on in your honor. Your legacy will live forever at Folds. Godspeed. pic.twitter.com/Fzdekwc8mA
— Lt Colonel Dan Rooney (@LtColDanRooney) December 10, 2024
Tom Gorman contributed to post.
