Makena White Donation: Tributes Honor Late Partner of PGA Tour Golfer Jake Knapp

Makena White, the girlfriend of PGA Tour professional Jake Knapp, passed away at the age of 28 just before the Ryder Cup began on Friday. In her memory, friends and loved ones encouraged donations to two causes close to her heart — the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.

The heartbreaking news was shared on September 26 through a touching Instagram post by a close friend. The post remembered White as “one of a kind,” describing her as someone whose heart was “overflowing with love” and whose laughter brought joy to those around her.

Donations in Memory of Makena White

The Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic in Ottawa, Canada, was one of the organizations named for donations. This clinic specializes in brain health and memory care, supporting families affected by conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. White’s connection to the clinic was deeply personal — her mother, Crystal, has been a patient there since 2018 after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Friends said this care brought comfort and hope to Makena’s family during challenging times.

The second organization is the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund, created by Tamy and Evan Bell after their son Griffin passed away from cancer in 2024. The fund supports cancer research and provides resources for families navigating serious illness. By including this fund in her memorial wishes, Makena’s loved ones highlighted her compassion and desire to make a meaningful difference even after her passing.

PGA Tour fans remember White for her public support of Jake Knapp during key career moments. The couple began dating in August 2023 and went public in February 2024, shortly after Knapp’s first PGA Tour win at the Mexico Open. One of their most memorable moments was when White surprised Knapp on the 18th green to celebrate his victory — a scene widely shared by golf fans online.

Community Reaction and Legacy

News of White’s death has shocked the golf world and beyond. Friends described her as someone who radiated warmth and joy, with an adventurous spirit that inspired those around her. Tributes online have praised her generosity and kindness, while many have shared their intent to support the charities named in her honor.

While PGA Tour organizers have not officially commented, several golf insiders and fans have expressed condolences to Knapp, who faced this personal tragedy just as the high-profile Ryder Cup was set to begin. Many believe the donations requested on her behalf reflect the life she lived — one filled with love, care, and purpose.

Makena White’s death at just 28 is heartbreaking. The donation drive to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund ensures her memory will support important causes and continue to help families in need.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Makena White donation campaign?

It is a tribute encouraging donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic and the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund in memory of Makena White.

Q2: Why was the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic chosen?

Makena’s mother has been a patient there since 2018 after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, making the clinic deeply meaningful to her family.

Q3: What does the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund support?

It funds cancer research and provides help to families facing serious illness, continuing Griffin Bell’s legacy of hope and support.

Q4: How did Jake Knapp and Makena White share their relationship publicly?

They began dating in August 2023 and went public in February 2024 after Knapp’s first PGA Tour win at the Mexico Open.

Q5: When did news of Makena White’s passing break?

It was shared on September 26, 2025, through a heartfelt Instagram post from a close friend.