Skip to main content Skip to footer content
Empowering post-9/11 veterans, service members, and their families to thrive, as we honor 250 years of America.   
Learn More
WWP Logo Black Horizontal
Donate
WWP Logo Black Horizontal
Join
Donate

PGA Tour Caddie’s Quiet Legacy Lives On

Clarence “Wayne” Beck’s name may not be on a trophy, but in the golden era of professional golf, it carried weight among champions. Years later, that same name would leave a lasting mark on the lives of wounded veterans.

As a veteran PGA Tour caddie, Wayne walked the fairways with some of the game’s greats – David Graham, Jerry Pate, Andy Bean, Dave Hill, Hubert Green – during an iconic era in the 1970s and ’80s. He played a key role in David Graham’s 1981 U.S. Open win at Merion Golf Club and capped off his storied 45-year career on the Senior PGA Tour as Arnold Palmer’s personal caddie for more than a decade.

Wayne Beck was more than a caddie – he was a student of the game, a master strategist, and a mentor to golfers under pressure. Known for his quiet demeanor, deep knowledge, and unwavering work ethic, Wayne earned the respect of players, officials, and fellow caddies alike.  

“He had a sixth sense for the game,” said Jerry Pate, a longtime friend and the 1976 U.S. Open champion. “Wayne didn’t talk much, but when he did, you listened. He had a calm presence that kept you grounded when the pressure was on.”  

Wwp Supporter Wayne Beck With Nfl Hall Of Famer Emmitt Smith And Golf Star Jerry Pate

Wayne Beck (from left) with NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith and golf star Jerry Pate.

Wwp Supporter Wayne Beck Caddies For Legendary Alabama Football Coach Nick Saban

Wayne Beck (left) caddies for legendary Alabama football coach Nick Saban..

“Wayne always believed that while we were out playing golf, we were fortunate. Because people were willing to serve and protect our country so we could do what we loved. Wayne was a veteran, and he wanted the money from his estate to go to wounded warriors. He believed in it.”

Longtime friend and PGA Tour Player
Jerry Pate

That same quiet integrity extended far beyond the course – especially in Wayne’s devotion to fellow veterans and causes like Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP).  Wayne grew up in Alabama, played golf at Howard College (now Samford University), and served in the Air National Guard before finding his way to the PGA Tour.  

After retiring from the tour, Wayne settled in North Carolina. Before his passing in 2022 at age 78, Wayne made a thoughtful decision that honored both his service and his values: He included WWP™ in his estate plans, ensuring his support for veterans would carry on for generations.

Read full story

Read More Donor Stories

Charles Evans

Leaving a Legacy

Businessman Charles Evans was a fashion pioneer, a real estate developer, and the producer for the hit comedy, Tootsie, but the legacy he left is in helping others.

Read Charles's story
Tom Cocchiarella during his visit to WWP's headquarters.

Paying it Forward

Whether it’s defending the country, succeeding in the technology business, fighting cancer, or advocating on behalf of U.S. veterans, Tom Cocchiarella isn’t someone who gives up easily – or at all.

Read Tom's story
WWP Donor Dick Henry.

Pearl Harbor Survivor Keeps Legacy Alive

Dick Henry spent most of his 100 years of life serving his country. He loved sharing his stories with others, and the main theme was his special devotion to other service members and veterans.

Read Dick's story

Making a Difference Together

It’s through the passion and generosity of friends, supporters, and like-minded organizations that we are able to offer life-changing programs and services to wounded warriors and their families — all at no cost to them.

Ways to Donate Get Involved

SIGN UP