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Gay Brewer Obituary
Brewer, who retired from the Champions Tour in 2000, had been battling cancer since October, fiancee Alma Jo McGuire said. He died at his home.
Brewer won the 1967 Masters for his lone major title a year after he lost an 18-hole playoff to Jack Nicklaus. In 1966, Brewer three-putted the 72nd hole to fall into the playoff with Nicklaus and Tommy Jacobs.
In June, Picadome Golf Course in Lexington, where Brewer learned to play, changed its name to honor him. Brewer played college golf at the University of Kentucky.
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
92 Entries
Daniel D Marsh
May 31, 2025
I used to walk the golf course with my dad and Gay in Ft. Richardson, Alaska in 1955. He was such a nice and patient man. I loved him!
Daniel D Marsh
Mike Ovren
October 12, 2015
I followed you for many years. You were always my favorite pro. I loved you, Gay. RIP
Harry Simpson
August 31, 2014
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
How you can show support
Tyler Dane Moore
October 19, 2010
Will always remember
Tyler Dane Moore
ryan provence
July 11, 2010
I loved papa very much. He ment more to me then I can ever imagine. I thank God for everyday I had with him
conor moran
October 6, 2009
inter web
September 16, 2009
Hello!! [email protected]
Gary Fitzsimmons
January 6, 2009
Brewer Family, I was so sorry to hear about your loss. It was truly a loss for all that knew Gay. What a wonderful man. My family and I will always have so many happy memories of Gay and the great times we able to spend together. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Martin Tait
December 5, 2008
I have just purchased a 340H putter from a friend for $196.00, I now own a legend
Mike Paahana
April 17, 2008
Eh u no ur name is MAHU in Hawaii
Bob Marr
March 20, 2008
I don't know if I ever met Gay; he worked for my Dad as a collection agent before he turned pro. I remember my Dad getting a phone call periodically from Gay when he would be playing in a tournament near Cincinnati, but Gay (or Bill as my Dad knew him) never was able to stop by. He was a great champion.
Brian O´Connor
February 12, 2008
Hey Hello!! [email protected]
Robin Middleton (Brewer)
January 26, 2008
My mom and dad divorced when I was just 2 yrs. so I did not get the chance to know my uncle Jr. or his family. He was my dads (J.C. Brewer) brother. From everything that I hear about him he will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his daughters.
Tyson Crisman
January 11, 2008
To Gay Brewer's Family,
I met Mr. Brewer (as I called him) at what used to be called the Bruno's Memorial Classic in Birmingham, Alabama. Mr. Brewer knew my Grandfather Otey Crisman, Jr. (also a professioal golfer) and used his putters off and on throughout his career. I had the chance to meet him multiple times through my father Otey Crisman, III who continued his father's putter business. Mr. Brewer was a great man and I enjoyed watching him play golf. I also enjoyed meeting with him each year and hanging out with him on the putting green. I was saddened to learn of his death and I will continue to keep his family in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Tyson Crisman
Kelly Allen
January 2, 2008
My dad was a true inspiration. I miss him dearly and the sweet memories I have in my heart will remain forever.
Thanks to all for your kind words.
tim kester
December 25, 2007
one of my favorite pros as a kid. i saw him at the 68 open.gay gets my vote for most inspiring comeback in my lifetime.fans are saddened at our loss.
Hali Provence
November 24, 2007
I love this website. Thank you for all the comments on my family. I miss my grandpa and he will all ways be in my heart. He is in a better place and I hope everyone got to see the side of him that I did.
Pam Hoadley
September 26, 2007
Kelly:
Your dad was such a sweetheart, and I know how much you adored him. To look at one bright side, I'm sure he and your mom are so happy now that they are together again!
Sue and I are really glad we got to be with you at the service - and see that video, what great memories!
We love you and are thinking about you...
xo Pammy & Sue
John Snare
September 18, 2007
To Gay's Family:
I've enjoyed following Gay for many years - most particularly at the Legends Demaret Tournament at St. Augustine and more recently at Savannah. Next year, when I'm at the first tee at the Legends and Gay and Alma Jo don't pull up in their cart, there will be a lump in my throat. I always made a point of wishing them well each year. He was always so nice to everyone - just a decent and unassuming guy and a joy to be around. I attended a clinic which Gay did at St. Augustine a few years ago and told him how much I enjoyed it and how much it helped my game. But, the best lesson he passed on to us was really how we ought to treat others. I will miss the loop in his backswing and his warm smile and try my best to treat others as Gay did.
May God watch over Gay.
John Snare
Crystal River, FLA
martha McGourty -Kelleher
September 9, 2007
Kelly-
I just found out that your Dad passed away. I am so sorry,I rememeber
how much you loved him. I always remember him talking about playing golf
in Alaska and how much he hated the cold and thought any one who lived
up North was out of their minds.Some of my greatest times were going
and watching your Dad on the Senior Tour. My husband thinks that it is
pretty funny that I went to golf tourments and never had played golf.
But we weren't really watching that much golf.your father was so sweet
to let me tag along. I would love to catch up with you. My email
[email protected].
Susan Fugate-Buchholtz
September 7, 2007
What a wonderful man, Gay Brewer!!
This past Father's day I asked Mr. Brewer to right my dad a letter so I could give him a hand written letter from the Master's Champion. He wrote this letter with such kindness and warmth. Thank you Mr. Brewer for being so wonderful. You touched many lives everywhere you went.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Shirley Jaeger (Wade)
September 7, 2007
My husband, Jim Wade,& Gay were teanage buddies in Memphis, Tenn. They played in tournaments together as kids. When Gay played in Pensacola, Fla. in the later years, he stayed at our house & played pool in our lounge (Shirley's Lounge) & enjoyed a few drinks with customers. We all treasured knowing him. (Jim died 5-10-02)
Enid Harris
September 6, 2007
September 6 2007
Taffney,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss , all of us here at Jefferon Manor are praying for you and your family,May the Lord be with you in this time of grief
Sincerely,
Enid
Mario Salinas
September 6, 2007
I was one of the lucky ones to meet Gay at the Legends in Austin. I did a medical exam for insurance purposes at his hotel. Gay gave alot more than he took. We got together every year he came to Austin and I'd follow him to San Antonio for the Dominion. He gave me two of my best friends, who also signed this book, Ralph Hackett and Lee Leatherwood. God Bless Gay Brewer.
trace lambson
September 6, 2007
MR BREWER FAMILY..I HOPE YOU CAN FIND SOME PEACE!!!AND KNOW HEAVEN WILL BE A BETTER PLACE BECOUES HE IS THERE..I ALLWAYS LOVED THAT SWING SWING..T.L.LAMBSON
Mike Mccormick
September 6, 2007
A true Gentleman's Champion. You will be missed.
W. A. Bliss III
September 6, 2007
I recall following Gay during a practice round at the Masters and watched him hit sand shots from the back trap on 16 to that impossable pin position. Darn if he did not hole two of them!
What a wonderful man and a true champion.
May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
scot holcomb
September 5, 2007
good luck to u all
Fred Couples
September 5, 2007
I met Gay before i went on tour,
Gay was the head pro at Desert Horisons c/c in Palm DESERT Calif.
He was so kind to me and showed me
much
We will all miss him
REST IN PEACE
Theresa Denny
September 5, 2007
My mom named me after him. I spent most of my life trying to explain this to people, how wild that i would just happen to see this today. Sorry to hear that your family has suffered such a great loss but you are now joined by many, including my grandparents and my nephew Danny. May you all play golf together forever.
stacy monarch
September 5, 2007
i was really sorry to hear this.
Ralph Hackett
September 5, 2007
It was an honor and a priviledge caddying for Gay. There will never be another man like him.
Sheila Boardman
September 5, 2007
It was a pleasure to have gotten to know Gay through my membership at the University Club of Kentucky. He was a true champion and an ambassador for golf. I will never forget him telling me "get rid of that weak grip, now see what you can do". He was so much fun to talk with. Gay always told the most fascinating stories. I will always remember Gay, his stories, his kindness and his words of wisdom. Gay, you will be missed.
Kenneth &Marsha Littral
September 4, 2007
My deepest sympathy to all the family. I grew in the Owsley Ave. neighborhood w/Larry & his sisters & remember Gay being the oldest brother.
You are in my thoughts & prayers.
Robert Long
September 4, 2007
It was a great pleasure to have known gay I met him thru arnie I had the pleasure of playing many rounds of golf with him I know I will see him at the masters in the sky
GOD pless his sole
David Price
September 4, 2007
I had the honor of meeting Gay at the Rex open this year. It was my first day at work and I was nervous playing with my superiors as well as a Master's champion. Needless to say it was probably one of the worst golf games of my life! However getting the chance to meet a guy as great as Gay made it one of the best days of my life! The world has truly lost one of the great men that I have met and it was an honor to have been able to play golf and spend five hours with him.
Ginni Mather
September 4, 2007
Kelly, Mike, and the kids,
I am so sorry to hear of Gay's passing. I hope you can all find some comfort in each other during this difficult time. His memory will live on forever. God bless.
Love, Michael and Ginni
Mark La Londe
September 4, 2007
It was a pleasure to know someone who was so full of life and who always had time for a joke. Rest in Peace Gay
Gary Stewart
September 4, 2007
I am sorry to learn of Gay's passing. I've always loved the Brewer Family. I grew up two doors from your family. My prayers are with each of you.
Shana Brewer
September 4, 2007
I wish I could be there to give my support & love to the family- My thoughts are with all of you- Uncle Jr. will be missed dearly.
Gina Sahagian
September 4, 2007
Kelly, This is from one of your former college roommates - Gina Calise (Sahagian). I saw this and wanted to extend my simpathy to you and your family. I remember meeting your Dad at our graduation. He was such a nice person and so proud of his daughter.
When things settle down and you have a chance, I would love to hear from you. My email is [email protected]
Sincere sympathy.
Gina
Kim Weldon
September 4, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Steve Lewis
September 3, 2007
It is hard to believe that I won't hear the words "Mawn have I got a job for you" anymore. He was the only person I know that could make you laugh by the way he said hello. It was a pleasure knowing Gay these past 23 years. I will miss him. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with his spirit. My deepest sympathy to Alma Jo, Kelly, Erin, Judy, Mabel, JC, Larry and the rest of the family.
Edwyna Humperdinck
September 3, 2007
It's sad a great golfer like Gay Brewer had passed away. Their will never be another one like him.
Sheila Smith
September 3, 2007
Rest in Peace Gay.
John Wofford
September 2, 2007
This man was a true champion.He will be missed!
shirley simmons
September 2, 2007
I did not know my uncle JR. that well but I have heard so much about him and he is part of my dad who i love very much and i know he will be missed greatly
Jeffrey Shelton, PGA
September 2, 2007
On behalf of myself & the staff at the newly named, Gay Brewer, Jr. Course at Picadome, I want to offer our deepest sympathy to the Brewer Family, and their many, many friends. The family has been through alot over the last year and half with their Mom, Fred, & now Gay's passing. Our thoughts & prayers go out to ALL.
It was with GREAT pride that we accepted our facility's name change back on June 26th. What a truly important event in golf in the Bluegrass, as I witnessed an inspiring ceremony, attended by the "Who's Who" of Kentucky Golf. It was with much respect that I told him after the ceremony that with his name attached to this place he had my promise that we would do right by his name.
Gay, that promise still holds true, and always will while I am the PGA Professional at the Gay Brewer, Jr. Course at Picadome ....
Rest in Peace
Chris and Katie Gilbert
September 2, 2007
I met Mr. Brewer when I was caddying for my father, Larry Gilbert, on the Senior PGA Tour. He and my father would always play practice rounds together and he was great friend to our family. He will be missed.
Pat Huffman-Lipsey
September 2, 2007
JR. taught me to play golf while we were in high school. He was always laughing and so humble with his place in life. My prayers go to all his family and friends.
Frank Brannock
September 2, 2007
Having grown up cadding at Picadome Golf Course, I had occasion to meet Gay. He was a 1st class gentleman and a credit to the sport of golf. He will be greatly missed.
Bernie Hoffeld
September 2, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Lee Leatherwood
September 2, 2007
When Legends of Golf was played in Austin, Gay stayed each year at a hotel I managed. We became great friends. He was one of the funniest people I ever met, and, as Bobby Nichols said, he could have had a successful career as a comedian. It was obvious that Gay was a favorite among his fellow golfers. He lit up every room he entered--was the life of every party. But the thing that today stands out most to me about Gay was how down to earth he was--how he treated every person he ever met with Respect. He was one of the most genuine people I ever knew. My heart goes out to his daughters and grandchildren, of whom he was so proud.
Marla Burvee
September 2, 2007
Gay used to stay at my parents (Bertie and Harry Robb's) house when he was just starting out on the tour. I used to love to hear his accent. I was the flower girl in his wedding to Carole Lee. Time goes by so quickly and in a blink those we love are gone. My mother and I are the only surviving Robb's and we wish to express our deepest sympathy to the Brewer family. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Marla Robb Burvee
Bertie Robb Mills
Fritz Frye
September 2, 2007
Alma Jo, I met both you and Gay when I was 6 years old and he was 13 at Picadome. My dad was Brother Frye. Gay was always my hero. We had many great talks at Augusta. He will be sorely missed. Please accept my symphathy for the loss of Gay.
Jim & Ann Littleton
September 2, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Jerry Hall
September 2, 2007
My late mother was Junior’s older sister. As a youngster growing up in the 50s and 60s, it was such a thrill to me when the family would visit my grandparents house and there on the television (which was relatively new at that time) would be one of our own, becoming a world champion. I’ll miss the sound of his laughter, but I am sure that right now he is in heaven, catching up and sharing jokes and laughter with the friends and family that went before him. I can almost hear him say “Have you heard the one about.....”
Tony Justice
September 1, 2007
Every Time a play golf at the University Of Kentucky Big Blue Course I stop to look at the Masters Trophy Mr. Brewer won. It always sends cold chills down my spine. He will be missed.
Carol Mills
September 1, 2007
Judy (Brewer) and Bill Cumby, may we tell you how sorry we are at the loss of your brother. I am so glad i got to meet him and get a glimpse at what everyone has talked about, Gay's sense of humor and the sincerely nice person he was. I send this from the group: Peggy, Louis, Kathleen, Arlene, Kate and myself and everyone who would join us on Tuesdays for supper. We love you and will keep you in our prayers. Love, Carol
Nelson Moore
September 1, 2007
I only knew of Gay through his brother Fred who was the Caddie Master under Alvy Hume at Idle Hour Country Club where I carried many golf bags. Sometimes one on each shoulder. Prayers with all, Nelson
Teresa Johnston
September 1, 2007
Gay, you will be missed. May God love and keep you in His loving arms.
D.L. ZIMMERMAN
September 1, 2007
REST IN PEACE GAY BREWER
Bob Stamper
September 1, 2007
Prayers and condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Gay Brewer Jr. A Master's Champion.
May the Love, Tender Mercies, and Healings of Almighty God be forever with the family, fans, and friends of Mr. Gay Brewer, Jr.
Also, may the Comfort and Love of our Lord Jesus Christ be included.
Plus the Guidance and Peace of the Blessed Holy Spirit.
Psalm 94:19 (King James Bible)
In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul.
Romans 15:33 (King James Bible)
Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.
Titus 1:2 (King James Bible)
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
Dana Scott Williams
September 1, 2007
Deepest Sympathy.
phil thomas
September 1, 2007
lucky to have known him
John McGuire
September 1, 2007
Jo,
Our thoughts and sympathies are with you.
John, Thom, Matt and Katherine
Graham Gore
August 31, 2007
The golf world has lost a great story teller. I sure hope some of them were recorded. My best wishes for all the family
Freda Brewer Grider
August 31, 2007
We have lost Junior, Dad, Mamaw, and Mom in the last 15 months. Even though we are sad and grieving, they are in a happy place now. My thoughts and prayers are with his daughters and their families, because my brothers, my sisters, and myself know exactly what you are going through. I am so sorry.
Doug Gash
August 31, 2007
Doug Gash
Will H.
August 31, 2007
Gay,
I will never forget being a volunteer in the Senior Tournament out at Kearney Hills. I was carrying the large scoreboard in your pairing and it was very windy out here, as it always seems to be. You put me in your cart for a few holes and chatted with me and I was just blown away by that. That was just Gay Brewer. A Masters Champion and a finer person.
Rest In Peace Sir.
August 31, 2007
With deepest sympathy to the Brewer family.
Bruce and Marlene Crampton
Jim Moore
August 31, 2007
Gosh, he was a good golfer. I remember playing in a caddy tournament in my home town of Winchester, and everyone said how good he was; they weren't kidding. This was in '46 or '47. He was better than any adult that I ever caddied for.
Bob & Edith Stamper
August 31, 2007
Prayers and condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Gay Brewer Jr. A Master's Champion.
May the Love, Tender Mercies, and Healings of Almighty God be forever with the family, fans, and friends of Mr. Gay Brewer, Jr.
Also, may the Comfort and Love of our Lord Jesus Christ be included.
Plus the Guidance and Peace of the Blessed Holy Spirit.
Psalm 94:19 (King James Bible)
In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul.
Romans 15:33 (King James Bible)
Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.
Titus 1:2 (King James Bible)
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
Brian May
August 31, 2007
Mr. Brewer was always one to help others. He furthered the game of golf for all those around him. He will truly be missed on the practice range and always remembered in our hearts.
Brian Hickey
August 31, 2007
I know that Mamaw is welcoming you. May you rest in peace.
Alvis Hickey, Jr.
August 31, 2007
There is no doubt that Junior is with his sisters, brother, mother and father, and is sporting a huge smile. His success was accomplished purely through self-determination, hard work, and with an enduring love for golf. His name will be in the history books for a very long time for others to see. Though I only got to physically watch him play once in Georgia, I always had a deep respect and admiration for him for his accomplishments and as family member. He always made sure that his family members were in his mind and heart. Uncle Junior will definitely be sorely missed but not forgotten. May you rest in peace.
Frank Hargett
August 31, 2007
Junior, It took 70 some years , but you finally met something that you could not beat . God knows that no one could beat your smile and attitude toward life .May God bless and keep you in the palm of his hand.
Frank Hargett
Jan (Malone) Mullinix
August 31, 2007
I remember Gay Brewer from Lafayette High School. I also went to Picadome, and think it's neat that they have named the course after him. He was a few years ahead of me, but was a good friend of my best friend's brother. I always enjoyed following his golf game. Sorry for your loss...
Mont Montgomery
August 31, 2007
A true gentleman of the game, and in life as well.
Marvin Cassell
August 31, 2007
Many of us sponsored Junior when he began his pro career.
Mike Stratton
August 31, 2007
I am a member of The Unversity Club Golf Course and I talked to you on several
occasions and you always spoke and had a pleasant smile. You were such a
gentleman and role model for all us rookie golfers! You will be missed!!
Valerie Brewer Barnes
August 31, 2007
Junior is now with Mamaw, Dad, and Christine. May they all rest in peace.
Danny Pearson
August 31, 2007
I have always been a big fan. I don't think the state could have had a better ambassador for golf or anything else than Mr. Brewer.
Godspeed
Heleln Gilb
August 31, 2007
Dear Alma Jo, I am so sorry for your loss. I had no idea Gay had cancer. I was just in Lex. for my Mothers funeral last Sat. She was 100 and lived a wonderful life just like Gay did. Just glad you had some time together. Much love, Helen Vance
Dan and Betty Callaghan
August 31, 2007
A great golf legend is gone. We were proud to host Gay and Jo for local golf tournaments and never tired of listening to his golf stories. He had a unique way sharing his memories that had you laughing with him continuously. We will miss his smiling face. Love and prayers are with you, Jo, as well as his family.
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