We first met John Stewart in 2018 at our inaugural event. Accompanying the golf tournament was a silent auction, where golfers were encouraged to “go big” for charity, bidding early and often. Unbeknownst to John, he was in a bidding war against our 13-year-old, Matt, who had saved diligently and was determined to win. Unfortunately, John’s deeper pockets prevailed, and he secured the prized item—a guitar. However, upon recognizing the situation and seeing the defeat in Matt's eyes, John, without hesitation or explanation, chose to gift the guitar to Matt. This touching act of kindness not only brought tears of joy but also laid the foundation for a lasting relationship between John and our organization.

Since that memorable day, John has continuously supported our mission in various ways. When he didn't have time to bid on auction items, because he needed to leave to watch the SEC Championship, he reached out to the beneficiary and generously offered a handful of cash on his way out the door (we suspect he didn’t even count it). On another occasion, when unforeseen circumstances prevented him from attending, he sent a check along with a note apologizing for his absence and wishing us well. Last year, although he was not up to playing, he still gave back and made every effort to remain under the radar to avoid being “tapped” for the group photo. John’s generosity has been crucial in aiding our growth and expanding our reach, allowing us to support more local non-profit charitable organizations each year. His unwavering commitment to making a difference inspired us to create an award in his honor, and in 2022, we proudly presented him with the inaugural John Stewart Award.

Since then, each year during our annual event, we honor an individual or partner who exemplifies the spirit of giving and community support by presenting them with the esteemed John Stewart Award. This award not only celebrates their remarkable contributions but also serves as a reminder of John’s legacy and the profound impact that one person’s kindness can have. This year will be no exception, although it will certainly feel incomplete. Upon hearing of John’s passing, our initial thoughts were of profound sadness and disbelief. John was more than just a benefactor; he was a treasured friend and an integral part of our community. His absence leaves a significant void felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

J's and G's golf will continue to celebrate not only his memory but also the values he embodied—compassion, integrity, and the belief that small acts of kindness can create ripples of change. The John Stewart Award will continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging others to follow in his footsteps and contribute to the greater good.