The TGA is saddened to report on the passing of Woodrow “Woody” Thompson Fail Jr. A longtime TGA volunteer, Fail died on June 20 at his home in Conroe at the age of 90.

Born in Mobile, Ala., Fail moved to Texas with his family in his youth and graduated from Houston’s San Jacinto High School in 1954 and soon after joined the Air Force. Over the course of his distinguished military career, Fail was stationed at various posts across the United States and Europe. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued to proudly serve his country as a federal service employee in Washington, D.C. for another 20 years.

Once he retired from public service, Fail settled in Conroe where he became a devoted member of his community and church. He also became a dedicated Rules Official with the TGA during this time and volunteered at countless events over the years.

Golf was more than a pastime for Woody; it was a passion. He especially loved teaching young people the Rules of Golf and co-authored A Guide to Being a Golf Rules Official with Jason Smith, sharing his deep knowledge and commitment to the integrity of the sport.

During his lengthy volunteer career with the TGA, Fail was recognized many times for his leadership, enthusiasm and expertise, including winning the 2009 South Volunteer of the Year Award and 2014 Legends Junior Tour Volunteer of the Year Award. He also served as winning captain of the South Team at the 2012 Texas Shootout at Whispering Pines Golf Club.

Fail will be deeply missed and will be remembered for his kindness, unwavering spirit, and love of golf – but most of all, for the love he gave to his family, friends, and community.