When Grayson Murray won the 2024 Sony Open in Hawaii, it was a bittersweet moment for those who knew him. While it was gratifying to see him finally claim his first PGA Tour win in seven years, it was also a reminder of the kind and generous person he was, despite his reputation as the “errant guy who liked throwing clubs in frustration.” Months after his untimely passing, his close friend and fellow professional golfer, Jack Wilson, fought back tears as he recounted the selfless act that Murray had performed before his death.
Murray, known for his fiery temperament on the course, was not someone who was usually associated with acts of kindness and generosity. In fact, he was often criticized for his outbursts and on-course antics. However, for those who knew him well, they knew that he had a heart of gold and would go to any length to ensure the comfort and well-being of others.
Jack Wilson, who had been friends with Murray since their time on the junior golf circuit, shared a heartwarming story about his late friend. He described how Murray had invited him to stay at his house for a week while he was competing in a tournament in Wilson’s hometown. Wilson initially declined as he didn’t want to impose, but Murray insisted, saying it was no trouble at all.
During his stay, Wilson realized that Murray had gone out of his way to make him feel at home. He had stocked up on all of Wilson’s favorite snacks and had even gone to the extent of changing the sheets on the guest bed to ones that Wilson preferred. Murray had even set up a mini-golf course in the backyard so they could have some fun and practice together.
“It was such a small gesture, but it really meant a lot to me,” Wilson said, his voice cracking with emotion. “It showed me just how thoughtful and kind Grayson was. He always had a way of making others feel special and taken care of.”
Murray and Wilson had always shared a deep bond, both on and off the course. They had grown up playing together and had supported each other through the ups and downs of their professional journey. Wilson remembered how Murray had always been there for him, whether it was to lend an ear or to offer words of encouragement.
“I remember struggling with my game a few years back, and Grayson was the only one who believed in me,” Wilson recalled. “He would constantly remind me of my strengths and pushed me to keep going. And when I finally achieved my first PGA Tour win last year, he was the first person to call and congratulate me.”
It is no wonder then that when Murray passed away unexpectedly, Wilson was devastated. He had lost not just a friend but a brother, someone who had always been there for him through thick and thin. And it was during this difficult time that Wilson learned of yet another generous act that Murray had performed before his passing.
Murray had left a considerable sum of money in his will, with instructions to be given to a charity close to his heart – a charity that supported underprivileged children in his hometown. He had also specifically requested that Wilson be involved in the proceedings, knowing how much the cause meant to both of them.
“Grayson had always wanted to give back and make a difference in people’s lives,” Wilson said. “And even in his death, he continues to do so. It’s a testament to the kind of person he was – selfless, generous, and always looking out for others.”
As Wilson concluded his emotional tribute to his dear friend, it was clear that Murray’s legacy would live on through his acts of kindness and generosity. He may have been known as the “errant guy” on the golf course, but off it, he was a gentle, sweet guy who will always be remembered for the impact he made on those around him. And for Wilson, he will always be grateful for the memories and for the friend he was lucky enough to call his own.
