Makena White, Girlfriend of PGA Golfer Jake Knapp, Dies at 28

Golfer Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White, is dead at age 28

A friend of White’s confirmed her death in a post on Instagram on Friday, Sept. 26

White is remembered for her “rare way of making you feel special” and her “huge heart”

PGA golfer Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White, has died at age 28, her friend announced on social media.
A post from a friend on White’s Instagram account on Friday, Sept. 26 says, “Hi everyone – this is Makena’s friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week.”
“She is already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by Nelly and Fergie,” the statement said, the latter referring to White’s two dogs.
White was “one of a kind” and someone who “had this rare way of making you feel special,” her friend said in a statement, adding that “her huge heart was always overflowing with love.”
The statement added, “To be loved by Makena was a gift; one that came with endless laughter, so much joy, and a healthy sprinkling of chaos as we tried to keep up with her travel schedule,” and encouraged those who “would like to honour” White to make donations to Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.
The Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic previously shared that White’s mother, Crystal, started going to the clinic 2018 and was eventually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease.
“We love you Mak. We’ll miss you always, and we’ll be looking for you in the sunset 💛,” the statement concluded.

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Additional information about the cause of White’s death has not been made available.
PEOPLE has contacted representatives for Knapp for comment. Knapp was not selected to join the U.S. team for the Ryder Cup, currently going on now in Bethpage, N.Y.
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The last post White shared before her friend’s statement was posted is a loving tribute to her boyfriend, Knapp, 31. “Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams 🫶🏼 Second season in the books — forever grateful to be on this walk with you, here’s to many many many more,” she wrote over a photo of herself with Knapp. “I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud 💛,” she added.
On May 31, she wished Knapp a happy birthday, calling him her “very best friend.”
“No matter where our crazy adventures take us, you make every place feel like home 💛 I love you sweet boy,” she added.