William Thomas Horan

William "Tom" Horan, Jr., 71, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026, in McKinney, Texas. Tom was born on August 10, 1954, in Orlando, Florida and graduated from Edgewater High School. Tom lived a life marked by his deep passion for golf, learning to play the game at the age of 8. That passion led to a notable presence in the sports media world.

Tom was best known as the host and producer of the Orlando television show *Let's Talk Golf*, where his enthusiasm for the game and engaging personality made him a beloved figure among viewers and golf enthusiasts alike. His career spanned several influential roles within the golf community. He worked with the North Florida/East Central Chapter of the PGA, contributed to Central Florida Golfer Magazine, served with the American Singles Golf Association (ASGA), and held the position of Men's Golf Commissioner for the Central Florida Sports Commission.

In 2006, Tom and his wife Sonja relocated to the Asheville area of North Carolina. There, they co-hosted their weekly radio show *Speaking of Golf*, which quickly gained recognition for its insightful commentary and engaging interviews. The award-winning program led to one of Tom's proudest professional moments: in 2009, he was invited to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to conduct an onstage interview with legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus at the Asian Pacific Golf Summit.

Tom's love for golf extended far beyond his professional life. He was an avid golfer who found joy both on the course and in sharing that passion with others. While he enjoyed all sports—both as a participant and a spectator—golf held a special place in his heart.

In 2014, Tom was diagnosed with dementia. Though he faced this challenge with courage and grace, it was in the last two years that his condition progressed more rapidly. Throughout it all, he remained surrounded by love and supported by dedicated caregivers who ensured his final days were peaceful.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife Sonja; his son Sean; grandchildren Haiden and Kyleigh; brother Jack; nieces Gina and Katy; and stepson Scott Ruggiero. He was preceded in death by his parents William "Bill" and Dorothy Horan, as well as his brother Robert Horan.

A man remembered for his fun-loving spirit and friendly nature, Tom brought warmth to every room he entered—and every fairway he walked. His legacy lives on through those who knew him personally and through countless listeners and viewers who shared in his love for golf.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.