Makena White, the longtime girlfriend of golfer Jake Knapp, passed away at the age of 28. Although the details of her passing are limited, here's what we know so far.
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This past Friday, a friend of White's posted on her Instagram, expressing that she was already "deeply missed."
Under a beautiful photo of Makena White smiling, the post read as follows. "Hi everyone - this is Makena's friend, writing with the heaviest heart to share that Makena passed away earlier this week. She is already so deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends, and of course by Nelly and Fergie."
Makena's friend expressed that she was "one of a kind," and that her ability to love others was unparalleled. "She had this rare way of making you feel special, and her huge heart was always overflowing with love. To be loved by Makena was a gift; one that came with endless laughter, so much joy, and a healthy sprinkling of chaos as we tried to keep up with her travel schedule."
Makena's mother Crystal, also passed away in April of 2022 due to Alzheimer's disease. The post invited those mourning Makena to donate to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.
Two Years of Love Met With Tragedy
Makena was deeply loved by friends and family and will be greatly missed. She will also be remembered by her boyfriend, PGA golfer Jake Knapp, who hasn't yet posted about the death. After winning in his rookie season on the PGA Tour last year, Knapp was on a high.
In a statement to the Associated Press, the golfer shared where his head was at currently. "It's an understatement to say how hard all of this is to process for everyone who knew Mak, especially her family and friends, who deserve privacy and respect during this difficult time." He also expressed that he and Makena "shared so many unforgettable memories together" and that not being with her is "a tough reality to comprehend."
The last thing Makena shared on Instagram before her passing was a tribute to her boyfriend. Knapp had just finished his second pro golf season, which left him ranked at 55th overall. "Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams... forever grateful to be on this walk with you. I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud."
The couple had been dating for two years as of August 2025.
Photo by: Andy Lyons/Getty Images
