The golf world mourns one of its true legends. Jim Colbert, a name synonymous with passion, fighting spirit, and an unmistakable style, passed away on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the age of 85. Colbert wasn't a born golf pro, but he made the sport his life's work, making an impressive 1,091 starts on the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions.
On the PGA Tour, Colbert claimed a total of eight victories, celebrating his first triumph in 1969 at the Monsanto Invitational Open. He also showed his mettle in the majors: in 1974, he finished tied for fourth (T4) at the Masters and tied for fifth (T5) at the U.S. Open – a truly strong season. 1983 was a truly stellar year for him; with two wins, he was in peak form.
The Man in the Bucket Hat
Colbert's trademark? Clearly his bucket hat! A medical recommendation in his youth due to sunstroke risk became an iconic accessory and his signature look on the green. But it wasn't just on the PGA Tour where he thrived: On the Champions Tour, he racked up a remarkable 20 victories, including the prestigious Senior Players Championship in 1993. Even a prostate cancer diagnosis in 1996 couldn't stop him. After surgery and a two-year forced break, he returned in 1998 and immediately claimed victory at the Transamerica – what a comeback, what an attitude!
Jim Colbert, an eight-time PGA TOUR winner who added 20 titles on PGA TOUR Champions, died Sunday at 85. Colbert, born in New Jersey, played golf and football in his youth and received a football scholarship to Kansas State University. An injury ended his football career and he
His Legacy Off the Course
Colbert initially started with a football scholarship at Kansas State University but switched to golf after an injury. In 1964, he was the NCAA runner-up, turning professional in 1966. But he wasn't just a force on the fairway. With his company, Jim Colbert Golf, he built an empire, owning or managing up to 23 golf courses in the U.S., employing 700 people, and generating an annual revenue of approximately $50 million.
Jim Colbert was simply one of a kind. A golfer with heart and soul, who lived and shaped the sport in all its facets. His blend of consistency, fighting spirit, and entrepreneurial drive is a true inspiration for us all. The golf community pays tribute to this icon.
