Jacky Douglas Cupit, a distinguished American professional golfer known for his remarkable amateur career and four PGA Tour victories, passed away on March 4, 2026, in Plano, Texas, at the age of 88. Cupit's journey in golf was marked by both significant triumphs and a tenacious spirit that endeared him to fans and competitors alike. He leaves behind a legacy of sportsmanship and a profound impact on the game, particularly in his home state of Texas.

Born on February 1, 1938, in Longview, Texas, Cupit developed his passion for golf early in life. His exceptional talent quickly became evident during his collegiate years at the University of Houston. There, he was a two-time All-American in 1959 and 1960, playing a pivotal role in the Cougars' historic run of three consecutive NCAA Championship titles from 1958 to 1960. His amateur career was prolific, boasting 39 tournament wins before he turned professional.

Cupit transitioned to the professional ranks in 1960, joining the PGA Tour the following year. His impact was immediate and undeniable, earning him the prestigious PGA Tour Rookie of the Year award in 1961. This early recognition set the stage for a promising career on golf's biggest stage.

His first PGA Tour victory came swiftly at the 1961 Canadian Open, a memorable event where he and his brother Buster Cupit made history by becoming the first brothers to finish in the top two spots of a PGA Tour event. This win was a testament to his skill and a highlight of his burgeoning career. He went on to secure three more PGA Tour titles: the 1962 Western Open, the 1964 Tucson Open Invitational, and the 1966 Cajun Classic Open Invitational.

One of Cupit's most notable performances came at the 1963 U.S. Open, where he found himself in a thrilling three-way playoff alongside golf legends Arnold Palmer and Julius Boros. Though he ultimately finished second to Boros, his valiant effort in such a high-stakes major championship solidified his reputation as a formidable competitor. Spectators often remarked that he lost that major by mere inches.

Cupit's active PGA Tour career spanned from 1961 to 1973, during which he played in 272 events. He retired from full-time competition in 1974 due to persistent back problems. However, his love for the game never waned, and he later returned to play part-time on the Senior PGA Tour (now the Champions Tour) after turning 50 in 1988. In his later years, he served as the Golf Professional Emeritus at The Links at Land's End in Yantis, Texas, continuing to share his expertise and passion for golf.

Jacky Douglas Cupit will be remembered not only for his impressive achievements on the golf course but also for his humility, grace, and determination. His journey from a young caddy to a respected professional golfer inspired many, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and the hearts of those who knew him.