Franklin, TENN –
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bob Dibble, a legendary figure in Tennessee golf and a cherished member of the golfing community. Bob, who passed away recently at the age of 87, leaves behind a legacy of dedication to the game, mentorship, and remarkable contributions to golf at both the local and national levels.
Bob became a PGA Member on November 16, 1964, a milestone he reached well before the Tennessee Section was even founded. His membership spans a legacy that predates the very formation of the Section, making his contribution to the game all the more remarkable. Bob Dibble served as the head golf professional at Link Hills Country Club in Greeneville, Tennessee, from 1978 to 2000, where he earned the respect and admiration of his peers, students, and fellow professionals. He also had a distinguished career as the head golf coach at Tusculum University, where he spent 28 years coaching the men’s and women’s golf teams from 1989 to 2017. Under his guidance, his teams captured 65 tournament titles, including eight conference championships, and made six appearances at national tournaments. He mentored numerous All-Americans, conference players of the year, and countless other standout players.
Bob was more than just a coach—he was a mentor and a friend to all who knew him. He was honored multiple times by his peers for his exceptional contributions to the game, including the Tennessee PGA Junior Golf Leader of the Year Award and the prestigious Horton Smith Award. Bob’s influence extended far beyond his own coaching achievements, as he was deeply involved in shaping the future of junior golf in Tennessee and beyond.
Born in Peoria, Illinois, Bob began his professional career in 1957, becoming a PGA member in 1964. He served in the United States Marine Corps and later as the Midwest PGA President from 1971 to 1973. His passion for the game was matched only by his commitment to giving back to the community, which he did with enthusiasm and kindness throughout his career. He was also a veteran of the PGA Winter Tour and qualified for the National Club Professional Championship on three occasions.
In addition to his coaching accomplishments, Bob was inducted into the Tusculum College Sports Hall of Fame in 2014 and was a recipient of the TNPGA Distinguished Career Award in 2015. His contributions to the South Atlantic Conference were also recognized when the conference established the “Bob Dibble Spirit of the Game Award” in 2007, an honor given to a women’s golf student-athlete who exemplifies a genuine love of the game, outstanding character, leadership, and team-first mentality.
Bob’s impact on the game of golf, his players, and the golf community is immeasurable. He leaves behind a proud and enduring legacy of excellence, service, and mentorship.
We extend our deepest condolences to Bob’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those who were fortunate to have known him. His contributions to the game of golf and his dedication to those around him will never be forgotten. He truly made a difference in the lives of many, and his memory will live on in the golf community for years to come.
Service information to come.
Kelsey Ludwigsen, Communications Manager