Payne Stewart - a tribute to the professional golfer

CNN’s live coverage in 1999 of a small plane flying out of control for 2000 miles across America, with Air Force fighter planes ready to shoot it down, was more like the opening scene of a film than reality. For Payne Stewart it was, however, fatal reality as he and the other five passengers died in the plane.

The Christians in Sport magazine included a short tribute to Payne. However, as the story unfolds we felt that there was more that should be shared with our readers. The death of Payne Stewart, husband, father and champion golfer, at the age of 42 is a human tragedy. But the impact of his life and death has been immense.

Payne’s funeral service was an amazing occasion. Tip Killingworth, a member of the First Baptist Church staff in Orlando, wrote this account of the day:

“Today was an exquisite testimony to God's goodness and his perfect plan. I wouldn't hope to be able to convey the majesty of what God did during the hour and a half, but I've seldom seen such an amazing outpouring of love and compelling ministry of the Gospel.

“Paul Azinger, who led Payne to the Lord a few months ago, gave a tear-filled eulogy which left few in the auditorium without tears running down their cheeks. Payne's college room-mate and a friend from his youth, as well as Payne's early golf coach shared some heart warming memories. Then Pastor Jim Henry gave a remarkable gospel presentation based on parts of the book of Revelation that put Payne in the company praising God forever! It was so compelling. Not one pro golfer in attendance will be able to stand before God and say, ‘I never heard the Gospel.’

“Every pro was asked to wear a WWJD bracelet in the tournaments the following weekend. There was a TV interview for a national golf show recorded a couple of weeks ago where Payne spoke at length about how much more his life meant than just golf. It was MADE for today although no-one could have known at the time.

“The special highlight of the morning was Tracy Stewart who got up at the podium with her brother at her side and gave the most warm and wonderful eulogy that anyone could possibly have given. The power of God was clearly evident as she spoke clearly and lovingly about the man with whom she had lived the past 18 years. She recounted their meeting and how they fell in love that first night in Australia. Her lilting Aussie accent was very endearing. She thanked everyone for their love and spoke directly to Dixie Fraley whose husband, Robert, died on the same plane. She said they would make it together. There wasn't a dry eye in the place.”

At the European Tour service, Bernhard Langer said, “Payne we will miss you but we know you’ve gone to a better place to be with your Father.” Amen.

< back to story list  |  list all stories

Top of the page