Barbara Nicklaus — Jack’s ‘rock’ — inducted into Florida Women’s Hall of Fame

Jack is now not the only Hall of Famer in the Nicklaus household.

Barbara Nicklaus was inducted into the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame on Thursday for her significant contributions to the citizens of Florida. The ceremony was held at the Florida Supreme Court in Tallahassee.

“I am deeply humbled and honored to be chosen to be inducted into the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame,” Barbara said. “It is truly special to be included with such an esteemed group of women. We feel blessed to live in the great State of Florida – and blessed to be able to ‘give back’ to children and families in need.”

Jack Nicklaus praised his wife of 61 years on social media.

“I could not be prouder to say that today my wife Barbara is being inducted into the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame!,” Jack posted Thursday. “I am amazed by all the great work she has done over her lifetime – and continues to do – for so many people, especially children.”

Jack went on to call Barbara “the love of my life and my rock” and say she not only is the mother to their five children, 22 grandchildren, one great-grandchild but also an “adopted mom to countless people.”

“Barbara, you are and always have been the best,” he wrote.

Barbara is much more than ‘The First Lady of Golf.’ She has been called an “angel on earth” for her commitment to family, community and especially children. Her passion is helping children through the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, which they started in 2004 and has raised more than $150 million to enhance access to world-class health care for children and families in South Florida and beyond. Miami Children’s was renamed Nicklaus Children’s Health System in 2017.

Barbara earned the PGA of America’s Distinguished Service Award in 2019 and the USGA’s Bob Jones Award in 2015.

Jack and Barbara Nicklaus, who live in North Palm Beach, moved to Palm Beach County 55 years ago.