Lynn, November 7, 2025
News Summary
The city mourns the loss of David Sibley, the esteemed head PGA professional at Gannon Municipal Golf Course, who passed away at 54 after battling pancreatic cancer. Sibley, a beloved community figure, dedicated over a decade to the course, promoting golf among youth and championing inclusivity. His legacy extends through numerous awards and heartfelt tributes from friends and colleagues, highlighting his impact on New England golf and the lives he touched.
City Remembers David Sibley, Beloved Golf Pro and Community Leader
In a heartfelt farewell, the city is mourning the loss of David Sibley, the head PGA professional at Gannon Municipal Golf Course. Sibley, who dedicated 12 years of his life to the course, passed away on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the age of 54 after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. His journey started with a diagnosis in 2021, but it was his spirit and love for the game that continued to shine brightly even in his toughest moments.
A Journey Rooted in Passion
Born in Maine, Sibley was proud to identify himself as “a New Englander from the beginning.” His journey into the world of golf began at the tender age of 14, embarking on a lifelong love affair with the sport. Years later, he made his way to the head PGA pro position at Wild Wing Plantation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, followed by a notable role at Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina. With a wealth of experience, Sibley also served at prestigious locations including The Cohasset Golf Club, The Harmon Club, Wentworth Hills, Ipswich Country Club, and Beverly Golf & Tennis Club.
A Legacy at Gannon
Earlier this year, Sibley articulated his deep affection for Gannon, emphasizing his commitment to the people he worked with. His passion extended beyond professional accolades; he was also deeply involved in community efforts. Sibley was instrumental in running the Summer Junior Golf Clinic for children in Lynn and led an introduction-to-golf series in a local elementary school, fostering a love for the game in the next generation.
Recognition and Respect
His hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed. In 2025, Sibley was named the Golf Professional of the Year by the Massachusetts Chapter of the New England PGA. He was also a key leader as a member of the board and past president of the New England PGA, a testament to his influence and reach in the golfing community.
Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Heartfelt tributes have poured in from his friends and colleagues. Many hailed him as a fantastic friend and an exceptional player, recognizing him for effectively managing Gannon. His warm spirit and positive energy were especially noted during his fight against cancer, showing the community the essence of resilience.
Special acknowledgment was given to his support of women in golf, showcasing his advocacy for inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominant sport. Members from various clubs recounted how Sibley treated everyone with warmth and respect, reinforcing the camaraderie and respect that golf embodies. He was seen not just as a professional but as part of their extended family, having created lasting bonds with many.
Impact on New England Golf
The impact of David Sibley goes beyond his immediate community. As the Executive Director/CEO of NEPGA noted, he was the consummate golf professional who positively influenced countless lives throughout New England golf. His legacy continues to inspire others to strive for excellence while nurturing a love for the game.
A Passion for Improvement
David’s enthusiasm for golf was evident in his endeavors at Gannon Municipal Golf Course. Known for always striving to improve the course and the experience for its visitors, he left an indelible mark. His love for the game, combined with a deep commitment to his community, is what will keep his memory alive.
As the city reflects on David Sibley’s legacy, there is a shared understanding that his spirit will continue to influence both the community and the game he cherished so dearly. While he may have passed on, the lessons he imparted and the joy he spread will undoubtedly live on for many years to come.
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Additional Resources
- Itemlive: David Sibley Dies at 54
- Wikipedia: Pancreatic Cancer
- Gloucester Times: Meet the Pro David Sibley
- Google Search: David Sibley Golf
- Boston Globe: Golf Pro’s Battle with Cancer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Boston Herald: Hole of the Week
- Google News: David Sibley Tribute
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
