Byron Nelson, Requiescat in pace.

One of the greatest golfers of all time and one of the world's greatest gentlemen of sport has left us.

Golf legend Byron Nelson died about 1 p.m. today at his home in Roanoke, according to an announcement on the Tarrant County medical examiner's web site.

He was 94. He is survived by his wife, Peggy.

Nelson won 52 events and five major championships during a PGA career that includes the most dominant season ever. He won 18 tournaments in 1945, including 11 consecutively.

Nelson won the Master's and the PGA twice and the U.S. Open once.
The EDS Byron Nelson Championship in Las Colinas is the only PGA Tour tournament named for a former player.

Last month, Nelson was nominated for the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation's highest civilian award.

U.S. Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Lewisville, said he nominated Nelson in recognition of his philanthropic activities.

Nelson, who lives in Roanoke, had been honorary chairman of the Metroport Meals on Wheels annual golf tournament since 1992.

Metroport Meals on Wheels, based in Roanoke, provided 56,000 meals last year to area shut-ins and seniors, said Mary King, executive director of the program.

The Gold Medal is awarded for exceptional service and for lifetime achievement. (Thanks to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram for this obituary.)