Clint "Cowboy" D. Willingham

Clinton David Willingham (Cowboy), 65 of Erwin NC passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday May 31 2025. Clint was born on August 19 1959, in Augusta Georgia to the late William Clark Willingham Jr and Linda Hughes Willingham.

Clint devoted the early years of his life in the South Carolina and Florida Army National Guard for more than a decade. He served in the roles of communications, artillery, and helicopter maintenance.

Clint was raised in a family with a strong golfing history. He spent most of his life on a golf course. From growing up with a dad as a golf pro for more than 50 years, to building many courses with his older brother and dear friend Mark P. Clint was not only an avid golf player but spent more than 40 years in the construction business of numerous golf courses across the US and China. Clint started his golf course building career with the TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach Florida in 1980. Some of his most treasured golf course builds were The Jimmie Austin golf club at the University of Oklahoma in Norman Oklahoma, Champions Retreat Golf Club in Evans Georgia, and The Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska Minnesota where the Ryder cup was held in 2016.

Clint attended the Augusta National Masters Tournament for 35 years along side his father and older brother.

He was a huge Georgia Bulldogs, and New Orleans Saints fan and you would find him watching a game anytime they were playing.

Clint is survived by his wife of over 18 years, Debbie S Willingham of Erwin NC, Stepsons Joseph Avery and wife Jennifer of Erwin NC, Matthew Avery of Dunn NC. Grandchildren Jordan and Savannah Avery of Erwin NC. Brothers William Clark Willingham III (Hollywood) and partner Michelle of Georgia, Wesley Willingham of Georgia. Nieces Ashley Willingham and partner Eddy of Georgia, Lindsay Willingham of Kansas and Nephew Clark Willingham of South Carolina. And Numerous beloved Cousin’s and Friends.

A private memorial service will be held by the family at a later determined date.

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