ORLANDO, Fla. – Arnold Palmer, known as "The King" for his transformative legacy in golf, has died at the age of 87.
Palmer died Sunday evening at a Pittsburgh hospital while awaiting cardiac surgery, according to a statement from his company.
Recommended Videos
Palmer was not only a golf legend, but a pillar in the Central Florida community. He opened the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Woman and Babies in Central Florida.
He also co-founded the Golf Channel, which employs thousands of Central Floridians.
Famous golfers and Central Floridians alike took to social media to honor Palmer's legacy.
Here's to The King who was as extraordinary on the links as he was generous to others. Thanks for the memories, Arnold. pic.twitter.com/UlyfpIBOL2
— President Obama (@POTUS44) September 26, 2016
Mr. Palmer’s parking spot at Golf Channel this morning. #ArniesArmy pic.twitter.com/ZnNWJoOdcs
— Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) September 26, 2016
I just got the news at about 8:45 that Arnold had passed. I was shocked to hear that we lost a great friend (continued) pic.twitter.com/skehUsQgww
— Jack Nicklaus (@jacknicklaus) September 26, 2016
I'll miss you friend #ripTheKING pic.twitter.com/KIoz0CH59F
— Rickie Fowler (@RickieFowler) September 26, 2016
It's an honor to be a lockermate with you at ANGC. You inspired millions, changed the game, and will forever be missed. #arnie
— Jordan Spieth (@JordanSpieth) September 26, 2016
Remembering the special times I spent with Mr Palmer at Bay Hill. A true pioneer for our sport. Forever remembered. pic.twitter.com/qJQBpDWTWv
— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) September 26, 2016
The Legends of all Legends in the game of golf! RIP my friend, always loved u and always will! God Bless my Friend! #AP pic.twitter.com/HPZthEnDmo
— John Daly (@PGA_JohnDaly) September 26, 2016
RIP Arnold Palmer. One of the greatest golfers of all time, but also a generous man who gave so much to charitable causes in Orlando.
— Mayor Buddy Dyer (@orlandomayor) September 26, 2016
Arnie was what every great athlete should be. A great golfer, and a gentleman who treated everyone with dignity. That's why he was so loved.
— VP Biden (Archived) (@VP44) September 26, 2016
A man who made an enormous impact, in Central Florida and beyond. Rest peacefully, #ArnoldPalmer https://t.co/fQQXwIPupS
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) September 26, 2016
With Great Sadness, We Honor Our Beloved ~ Arnold Palmer (1929-2016) #ArnoldPalmer #ArniesArmy https://t.co/cr4S1Ihnv3 pic.twitter.com/gLmKGdw20H
— Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children (@APHospital) September 26, 2016
We are saddened beyond words on the sudden passing of Arnold Palmer this evening. Thank you so much for all of the support and kind words. pic.twitter.com/75piTLepXL
— Bay Hill (@APBayHill) September 26, 2016
Making a positive change in the life of a child is one of the most significant things you can do. #ArniesArmy pic.twitter.com/dw5Rb6A3cE
— Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation (@ArniesArmyCF) March 2, 2016
Deepest condolences to the Palmer family and all who are grieving the loss of #ArnoldPalmer. #RIPArnold #TheKing pic.twitter.com/xMJrx7u0vM
— Archive: Former Mayor Teresa Jacobs (@Mayor_Jacobs) September 26, 2016
A champion, legend & a beloved member of the Central Florida community. The King will be dearly missed.
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) September 26, 2016
Our thoughts are with his family. pic.twitter.com/uonCBW42br
The King.
— Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) September 26, 2016
Arnold Palmer: 09/10/29 - 09/25/16 https://t.co/GLZLZ47pSx #ArniesArmy pic.twitter.com/horkIg0l02
Our News 6 team also paid tribute to Mr. Arnold Palmer:
So sorry to hear that Mr. Arnold Palmer has passed away at the age of 87. He will be missed by so many.
— David pingalore (@DavidPingalore) September 26, 2016
Mr. Palmer & me circa '91. Great golfer, better person. He will be missed. pic.twitter.com/xphKlPOWdk
— Justin Warmoth (@JustinWarmoth) September 26, 2016
There are people on this planet that you wish would live forever. Arnold Palmer was one of those people ❤️ #TheKing
— Jamie Seh (@jamieseh) September 26, 2016
Sad news tonight hearing Arnold Palmer has passed away at the age of 87. I'm so thankful I had a chance to meet... https://t.co/zKwefhSXEB
— Bridgett Ellison (@BridgettNews6) September 26, 2016