A very sad story has shaken the golf world. Makena White, the girlfriend of PGA golfer Jake Knapp, has died at the young age of 28. The heartbreaking news was shared on her Instagram account on Friday, September 26, through a post written by one of her close friends.
“Hi everyone – this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week,” the message said. It went on to say that she is already deeply missed by her father, her family, her many friends, and of course by her beloved dogs, Nelly and Fergie.
Makena was remembered as someone truly special, with a unique gift for making people feel loved and valued. Her friend described her as “one of a kind,” saying she had “a rare way of making you feel special” and that her “huge heart was always overflowing with love.”
The tribute added that being loved by Makena was like receiving a beautiful gift — it came with endless laughter, incredible joy, and sometimes a bit of chaos as friends tried to keep up with her busy travel schedule. People who want to honor her life are encouraged to make donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, both of which held special meaning to her and her family.
Makena’s connection to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic came through her late mother, Crystal, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease after visiting the clinic in 2018. Makena shared her mother’s journey on social media, and when her mom sadly passed away in April 2022, she spoke about the deep bond they shared. Now, with Makena’s own passing, her friends and family are grieving yet another unimaginable loss.
The Instagram tribute ended with a heartfelt goodbye: “We love you Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset 💛.”
So far, no details have been released about the cause of her death. PEOPLE magazine reported that representatives for Jake Knapp have been contacted but have not yet made any comment.
Knapp, who has been rising in the PGA Tour over the last year, was not chosen for the U.S. Ryder Cup team currently playing in New York. His last professional outing was at the FedEx St. Jude Championship in August, where he finished tied for 62nd. For him, this personal loss comes at an especially difficult time.
The news of Makena White’s passing has left fans, friends, and the golf community heartbroken. She is being remembered not just as the partner of a professional athlete, but as a young woman who spread joy, laughter, and kindness to everyone around her. Her story is a reminder of how fragile life can be, and how deeply someone can touch others in just 28 years.
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