Henry Wilson Tuten Jr., 97, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 11, 1928, in Savannah, Georgia, Henry grew up immersed in sports and friendly competition. At Savannah High School, he lettered in four sports, football, baseball, basketball, and track, showcasing the athletic talent and drive that defined much of his life.

After high school, he joined the Aviation Cadets (U.S. Army Air Forces), proudly serving his country while playing on the service's exhibition baseball team. Following his military commitment, Henry used the GI Bill to attend Georgia Tech, where he competed on the golf team and earned his degree in 1956.

Golf remained a lifelong passion and central thread. His mother managed the Savannah Golf Club, igniting his early love for the game. Henry worked as an assistant professional at three clubs before shifting in 1956 to a successful career in commercial construction in Jacksonville, Florida.

His volunteer leadership in golf was extraordinary: he served as president of the Jacksonville Area Golf Association and for multiple terms on the United States Golf Association (USGA) Sectional Affairs Committee for the Southeast Region. In 1973, he chaired the Greater Jacksonville Open, the PGA TOUR event that later became THE PLAYERS Championship. In 2022, in recognition of his profound and enduring contributions to the sport and the Northeast Florida community, Henry was inducted into the Gator Bowl Hall of Fame.

As a competitor, Henry won the Jacksonville City Championship in 1971, qualified for the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Senior Amateur Championships, and played well into his 90s, frequently shooting his age. He was generous with his knowledge, always offering tips and encouragement to golfers of all levels.

His most lasting contribution is the pro-am he founded in the late 1970s, which evolved into the beloved Henry Tuten Gator Bowl Pro-Am. For more than 40 years, Henry organized and ran the event, turning it into one of Northeast Florida's most anticipated golf gatherings. Held annually the week before Christmas, now at the prestigious Sea Island Golf Club, it attracts touring professionals, club pros, and top amateurs for two days of exceptional golf, fun, and fellowship. A charitable arm recently added scholarships in Henry's name for deserving North Florida students, along with support for other meaningful causes. The tournament continues under a dedicated committee of friends and family, ensuring his legacy of generosity endures.Henry is survived by his devoted wife of 10 years, Anne Richman Tuten; his children: Tracy Tuten (Terrie) of Atlanta, Georgia; Matt Tuten of Jacksonville, Florida; Susie Johnston of Jacksonville, Florida; Mike Tuten (Amy) of Oahu, Hawaii; and Chris Tuten (Emily) of Jacksonville, Florida; along with 9 cherished grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Bobbie Jean McElveen Tuten, with whom he shared 54 loving years of marriage until her passing in 2011.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Henry's remarkable life will be held at CrossRoad Church, 10005 Gate Parkway North, Jacksonville, Florida 32246, on March 21, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., followed by a reception at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests contributions to the Henry Tuten Gator Bowl Pro-Am charity fund.

Henry lived a vibrant, active, and deeply giving life. His warmth, competitive spirit, and kindness left an indelible mark on his family, friends, and the golf community he cherished. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered with love and admiration.