Makena White’s final Instagram post for Jake Knapp before her death at 28 will break your heart
In the days before her untimely passing, Makena White shared what would become her last words to the world — a message filled with pride, gratitude, and love for her boyfriend, PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp.
White, just 28 years old, died earlier this week, according to an announcement made by a close friend on her Instagram account. The message described her as “one of a kind” with “a huge heart overflowing with love,” capturing the spirit of a young woman who made an impact far beyond her years. Her cause of death has not been disclosed.
Her Final Words
On August 11, only a day after Knapp’s last tournament appearance at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, White posted a series of photos of the couple walking hand in hand. Alongside them, she wrote a tribute that now reads as a bittersweet love letter:
“Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams. Second season in the books — forever grateful to be on this walk with you, here’s to many many many more! I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud.”
For those who knew her, the words reflect the essence of White — supportive, joyful, and brimming with affection.
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A Journey Together
White and Knapp began dating in 2023 and went public with their relationship the following year. She was by his side at the Mexico Open in February 2024, celebrating as Knapp secured his first PGA Tour victory. Their partnership was one of shared dreams and mutual encouragement — a love story that resonated with those who followed Knapp’s journey on the green.
Born and raised in Ottawa, Canada, White graduated from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, where she studied communications and software engineering before pursuing a career in medical device sales. Friends remember her as ambitious, kind, and endlessly supportive of the people she loved.
Remembering Makena
The announcement of her passing has shaken her community, with tributes pouring in from family, friends, and the golf world. CBS Sports reporter Amanda Balionis remembered her as someone who “never met a stranger” and whose light touched everyone she encountered.
Her loved ones have asked that anyone wishing to honor her memory make donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund. Both causes hold deep personal meaning, as White’s late mother, Crystal, received care from the Bruyère clinic before her passing in 2022.
Makena White’s last message remains a poignant reminder of the love she carried for Jake Knapp and the life they were building together. To her, love was not just a feeling but a gift — one she poured freely into the people and passions that meant the most. Though her time was far too short, her words will live on as a testament to the joy, devotion, and light she brought into the world.
FAQ
Who was Makena White?
Makena White was a 28-year-old Canadian who worked in medical device sales and was best known as the girlfriend of PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp.
What was Makena White’s connection to Jake Knapp?
White had been dating PGA golfer Jake Knapp for more than two years and was by his side when he won his first PGA Tour event at the Mexico Open in 2024.
What was Makena White’s final Instagram post about?
Her last post, shared on August 11, featured photos of her and Knapp walking together, with a heartfelt caption celebrating his golf dreams and their journey together.
How did Makena White die?
Her cause of death has not been disclosed.
What tributes have been shared in her honor?
Friends described her as “one of a kind” with a heart full of love, encouraging donations to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund in her memory.
