Jeff Babineau, a celebrated golf journalist and former editor of Golfweek, passed away on December 9 at his home in Oviedo, Florida, at the age of 62. Known affectionately as “Babs,” Babineau’s illustrious career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the golf world.
Over his career, Babineau covered more than 100 major championships on the men’s and women’s tours, along with 12 Ryder Cups. His reporting showcased the biggest stars in golf, and his extensive network of friends and contacts reflected his deep immersion in the sport. From 2015 to 2017, he served as president of the Golf Writers Association of America (GWAA), where he continued as secretary until his passing. The GWAA confirmed he died of natural causes.
Babineau was a giant figure with a gentle touch. He worked for the Lakeland Ledger and the Cape COD Times, and he was lured back to Central Florida for a job at the Orlando Sentinal in 1986, covering a range of sports before joining Golfweek in 1998. There, he rose to senior writer, deputy editor, and eventually editor-in-chief in 2008, before shifting his focus back to writing in 2014. A beloved mentor, Babineau inspired many in the industry. “Babs” was a mentor to me and a friend to all,” said Golfweek senior writer Adam Schupak. “He had the unique ability to write with both empathy and humor in equal parts.”
In recent years, Babineau worked as a freelancer for organizations like Augusta National, the PGA Tour, and the PGA of America. He also served on the board of directors for Folds of Honor, a nonprofit supporting families of fallen military service members.
Jeff Babineau is survived by his wife, Jane, and three sons: Keith, Derek, and Luke. His legacy as a writer, mentor, and advocate for golf endures. Details regarding memorial services will be announced.
AAGD Reporter John Perry says, “I was made aware of the passing of a longtime Golf Journalist and well respected friend of the game Mr. Jeff Babineau. Born October 16, 1962, in Dennis, Massachusetts, near Cape Cod, He worked his way up to be the Golf Writer in a city where Arnold Palmer was the king and a young kid named Tiger Woods turned Pro and moved into the neighborhood. The respect they had for Jeff was immense, for Jeff was true to his profession and honest with people about whom he wrote. Rest In Peace Jeff, from the golfing world and those whose lives you touched professionally and otherwise.”
