NCGA

Pat Keys, a past president of the PWGA and longtime volunteer, will be remembered as a remarkable woman whose love for golf was matched only by her devotion to the people and community surrounding the game.

For decades, she gave tirelessly of her time, talent, and spirit, becoming a respected leader, mentor, volunteer, and friend to countless golfers throughout Northern California.

Pat served the Pacific Women's Golf Association in many leadership roles, culminating in her role as the association's President in 2006. Pat remained a dedicated member of the Rules Committee for PWGA for over two decades and continued to volunteer as a Tournament Official for the NCGA since the unification of the two associations in 2020. Her knowledge of the game, fairness, and steady leadership made her a trusted presence at tournaments and events across the region.

Beyond her official titles, Pat’s greatest contribution was the way she welcomed and encouraged others. She helped establish the Sacramento Twilight Club’s nine-hole ladies’ group, creating opportunities for women to enjoy and grow in the game. She enthusiastically supported women’s golf events, junior golf, veterans’ tournaments, and countless community activities, always willing to volunteer wherever she was needed.

Pat also served on the California Women’s Championship committee, supported First Tee junior events, and generously gave her time to veterans’ golf programs and celebrations. Whether serving on a rules committee, mentoring new players, or simply riding along to keep others company during long tournament days, Pat’s kindness and dedication never went unnoticed.

What people will remember most, however, was not just what Pat did, but how she did it — with warmth, positivity, and a wonderful sense of humor. She had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued. Her friendly demeanor, “can-do” attitude, and joyful spirit made every event brighter and every friendship richer.

Pat was deeply respected, greatly admired, and dearly loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and in the golf community she helped shape with such generosity, grace, and heart. She will be deeply missed, and all of us who knew her are grateful to have shared in her friendship, laughter, and remarkable spirit.

NCGA