The golfing world lost a legend nearly 25 years ago, but the memory of Payne Stewart remains strong among his fans, family, and the sport he loved. His wife, Tracey Ferguson, has largely stayed out of the public eye since his tragic death, but her dedication to preserving his legacy continues to inspire many. This article delves into Payne Stewart’s life, career, and the enduring impact he has left on the golfing community and beyond.
Who Was Payne Stewart?
William Payne Stewart was born on January 30, 1957, in Springfield, Missouri. His passion for golf began at a young age, leading him to play college golf at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. After graduating in 1979, Stewart pursued a professional golf career, starting with the Asia Golf Circuit, a men’s professional golf tour in Southeast Asia.
Stewart’s talent and charisma quickly made him a prominent figure in golf. Throughout his career, he won 11 PGA Tour events, including three major championships: the 1989 PGA Championship, the 1991 US Open, and the 1999 US Open. His skills on the course were matched by his distinctive fashion sense, characterized by patterned pants, ivy caps, bright socks, and argyle sweaters. His unique style made him one of the most recognizable golfers of his time.
The Tragic Plane Crash
On October 25, 1999, tragedy struck when Payne Stewart was on a chartered business jet en route from Orlando, Florida, to Dallas, Texas. The plane lost cabin pressure early in the flight, incapacitating all six individuals on board due to hypoxia. The aircraft ultimately crashed in Mina, Edmunds County, near Aberdeen, South Dakota.
The crash claimed the lives of all on board, including Stewart, his agent Robert Fraley, golf architect Bruce Borland, and co-pilots Michael Kling and Stephanie Bellegarrigue. The devastating loss left a significant void in the golfing community. In memory of the victims, a memorial was erected at the crash site after consulting with their families, including Tracey Ferguson.
Honoring Payne Stewart’s Legacy
In the wake of Stewart’s passing, numerous efforts have been made to honor his legacy. The PGA Tour established the Payne Stewart Award in 2000, given annually to a player who exemplifies sportsmanship, commitment to charitable efforts, and respect for the traditions of golf. Stewart was posthumously inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001.
One of the most significant tributes to Stewart’s legacy is the Payne Stewart Golf Club, which opened in 2009 in Branson, Missouri, with the approval of Tracey Ferguson. The club stands as a testament to Stewart’s love for the game and his lasting impact on the sport.
Life After Payne: Tracey Ferguson
Tracey Ferguson met Payne Stewart in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 1980. She is the sister of Australian professional golfer Mike Ferguson. The couple married in 1982 and had two children, Chelsea and Aaron. Since her husband’s death, Tracey has devoted herself to her children and preserving Payne’s memory.
In a rare 2005 interview with Golf Digest, Tracey shared how her life changed after Payne’s passing. She focused entirely on her children, ensuring they had the love and support they needed. “My life became my kids, 24/7,” she said. “We had always spent time with them, both of us, but with Payne gone, I just felt the need to be with them all the time. I know it made them happy, but to be honest, I think I needed it at least as much as they did.”
Aaron Stewart, following in his father’s footsteps, is now the Vice President of Sports Marketing at Hilton Grand Vacations. Tracey continues to honor Payne’s legacy through her quiet dedication to family and the memories they shared.
Conclusion
Payne Stewart’s legacy is one of excellence in golf, distinctive style, and unwavering sportsmanship. Nearly 25 years after his tragic death, he remains a beloved figure in the world of golf. His wife, Tracey Ferguson, continues to honor his memory through her dedication to their children and the preservation of his legacy. As fans and the golfing community remember Payne Stewart, his influence on the sport and the values he embodied will never be forgotten.
