Jack Nicklaus Wife: Explore All About Barbara Nicklaus

Officials announced that Barbara Nicholas has been selected as an honoree for the 2025 Memorial Tournament. Barbara Nicholas, often referred to as the “First Lady of Golf,” has played a key role in the success of her husband Jack Nicholas and is a strong supporter of numerous charitable causes. She is the 84th person selected by the Captains Club to be honored in this prestigious event, which Jack Nicholas started in 1976.

Who is Barbara Nichols?

Barbara Nichols was born on February 28, 1940 in Columbus, Ohio. She is the daughter of the late Stanley and Helen Bash. She graduated from North High School in Columbus in 1957. Barbara attended Ohio State University to study nursing. It was there that she met Jack Nichols during her first week on campus. They were married on July 23, 1960.

What is his contribution to golf?

Barbara has been a constant supporter of Jack Nicklaus throughout his illustrious career. Jack Nicklaus won 73 PGA Tour titles and a record 18 major championships. Together they founded the Muirfield Village Golf Club and the Memorial Tournament. Barbara’s efforts have contributed significantly to his success.

What are his philanthropic efforts?

Barbara Nicholas is deeply involved in charitable activities. She is the president of the Nicholas Children’s Health Care Foundation. With Jack and the PGA Tour, she initiated Play Yellow, which has raised more than $130 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The Memorial Tournament has raised more than $52 million for various causes in Central Ohio and beyond. In 1988, she helped create the PGA Tour Wives Association to support fundraising efforts.

How did he react to the honour?

Barbara became emotional when she heard the news. “This honor is extremely special to me,” she said. “When the Captains Club gathered for its annual meeting and our old friend Charlie Meachem called to share the news, I became emotional and honestly had no words.” She expressed her gratitude and humility to be included in an elite group of honorees.

What awards has he received?

Barbara Nicholas has received numerous awards. In 1998, she was the first recipient of the PGA of America First Lady of Golf Award. In 2015, she received the USGA’s Bob Jones Award, and in 2019, the PGA of America Distinguished Service Award. Jack Nicholas received these awards in 1975 and 2000, respectively. The Nicholas family has twice been named Family of the Year in the world of golf.

What is his family background?

Barbara and Jack Nicholas have five children: Jack II, Steve, Nan, Gary and Michael. They also have 24 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. The Nicholas family is well known and respected in the golf world.

How will he be respected?

Barbara Nickolls will be honored next year during a ceremony at Muirfield Village. The ceremony will take place on the eve of the first round of the 50th Memorial Tournament. Jack Nickolls was honored in 2000. Jack expressed his pride and delight, saying, “I’m very proud of her. She has done a lot for a lot of people, and over 50 years at Muirfield Village Golf Club she has contributed so much and has received very little recognition.”

Barbara Nichols Awards and Honors

  • 1990: PGA Tour Ambassador of Golf Award
  • 1995-96: Captain of Muirfield Village Golf Club
  • 1998: PGA of America First Lady of Golf (1st prize winner)
  • 2000: Winnie Palmer Award by the Met Golf Writers Association (first recipient)
  • 2007: African American Golfers Hall of Fame Humanitarian Award
  • 2015: USGA Bob Jones Award
  • 2019: PGA of America Distinguished Service Award
  • 2021: Florida Women’s Hall of Fame
  • 2022: Governor’s Medal of Freedom, Florida state’s highest honor
  • 2025: Memorial Tournament presented by Workday Honoree

Barbara Nichols being honored for the 2025 Memorial Tournament reflects her immense contributions to golf and her philanthropic efforts. She has supported her husband’s career and worked tirelessly to help others, making her the true First Lady of Golf.

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