Joe Bud Lewis, Oldest PGA of America Member, Dead at 103
Golfer Joseph Bud Lewis, the longest-serving and oldest living member of the PGA of America, died Tuesday of natural causes at the age of 103, the Shelly Funeral Home told The Associated Press.
The PGA of America said that 101-year-old Samuel Henry Errie Ball, of Stuart, Fla., is now the oldest living member of the PGA of America.
According to myphillygolf.com, Lewis was born in 1908 and grew up in West Philadelphia. He turned pro in 1925 and became a PGA member in 1931. The AP reports that he was the first to reach 80 years of membership.
Lewis became head professional at Manufacturers Golf & Country Club in 1943. He spent 37 years in the position. After retiring, he became the club's pro emeritus and gave lessons at the club for the next 20 years, reports myphillygolf.com.
Lewis won the Philadelphia Open in 1942 and 1950. He qualified for the PGA Championship four times and the U.S. Open three times. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Section PGA Hall of Fame in 1996.
Lewis is survived by sons Joseph Jr. and Dan, daughter Jean, 12 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren.
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