Bob Dibble now joins his beloved wife, Cindy, after a lifetime of dedication to the sport he loved.
The former golf coach at Tusculum University, Bob Dibble, recently passed away at 87.
Dibble was known for his dedication to junior golf and his significant contributions to the sport.
He played golf at Central Missouri State and basketball at the University of Missouri at Kansas City.
Furthermore, he had a remarkable career, coaching the men’s and women’s golf teams to numerous victories and championships over his 28-year tenure.
He was recognized nine times as conference coach of the year. Likewise, he was inducted into both the Tusculum University Sports Hall of Fame and the South Atlantic Conference Hall of Fame.
Bob Dibble’s Wife, Cindy, Supported The Golf Programs Alongside Her Husband!
Bob Dibble was married to his wife, Cindy Dibble, for 65 years until her passing in September 2024.
They likely crossed paths in the late 1950s. During that time, Bob was beginning his career in golf, having turned professional in 1957.
Cindy predeceased him by just a few months, passing away in September of the previous year before Bob’s death in February 2025.
Born in 1940 to the late Edward and Fannie Riley, Cindy was a member and officer of The Ladies of the Moose and attended Central Christian Church.
Moreover, she was affectionately known as the “First Lady” of Tusculum University’s golf programs.
She was deeply involved in supporting the men’s and women’s golf teams, often traveling with the Pioneers.
Additionally, she served as the official scorer for home golf tournaments.
Cindy and Bob were married for over six decades and together, they had three children: Sandy, Tim, and Chris Dibble.
While there is scarce information about Sandy and Tim, the youngest child, Chris, has followed in his father’s footsteps in the golf world.
He is the head golf professional at Holston Hills Country Club in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Chris’s career choice reflects the influence of his father’s passion and prominence in golf, suggesting a closer professional connection to Bob’s legacy.
We are saddened by the passing of Bob Dibble, a Tennessee golf legend. A PGA member since 1964, Bob’s impact spanned decades as head pro at Link Hills CC & coach at Tusculum University, where he led teams to 65 titles. His legacy in golf and junior golf will never be forgotten. pic.twitter.com/2Byak2VJ0T
— Tennessee PGA (@TennPGA) February 26, 2025
The Tusculum University community is deeply mourning the loss of former golf coach Bob Dibble.
His passing has significantly impacted the university and the broader community.
Dibble, who dedicated 28 years to coaching at Tusculum, was highly respected for his mentorship and contributions to the sport.
The local golf community lost a true legend. Coach Bob Dibble was not just a golf coach, but also a mentor, friend, and "grandpa" to so many in East TN. Grateful that God brought him into my life during my college years.
— Lindsay Haywood (@LMU_LDHaywood) February 26, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are with the Dibble family. pic.twitter.com/VVIb3e1Awc
Memorial arrangements are being planned, and the community is coming together to honor his legacy.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Bob Dibble’s family, friends, and admirers.
Rest In Peace, Legend!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Bob led the men’s team to 44 tournament titles and the women’s team to 21.
- He guided the men’s team to five consecutive national tournament appearances from 1993 to 1997.
- In 2015, he received the Tennessee PGA Distinguished Career Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the sport.
