The Legacy of a "Tin-Man"

By Nolan Reilly

SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. - Jeff Tindall left behind what can only be described as a sizable legacy at Camden Country Club and the surrounding area. Tindall, or “Tinman,” who tragically passed at the age of 52 last July after his courageous battle with cancer, was a born and bred South Carolina native. 

“He had plenty of heart,” said Mary Tindall, Jeff’s mother. “Tinman came across with his buddies and himself.”

 Born in Charleston, “Tinman” graduated from the University of South Carolina and was a mainstay at his home golf course of Camden Country Club where he enjoyed membership at his second home for 38 years. Jeff was a junior golfer in high school, and this connection to the game led to him donating all his clubs after his passing to the South Carolina Junior Association. Tindall made sure that any memorials following his death be made out to the South Carolina Junior Golf Association.  Tindall also served as a golf course rater in South Carolina.  

“He was so kind and caring,” said Mary. “Responsible, dependable. He was one of those people where if you needed help it didn’t matter what time it was he would try to help you.” 

Jeff had cancer for ten years, including colon, lung, and then for a third time spreading to his arm. 

““You would never know it,” said Mary, “He fought, never complained and played golf as much as he could. He got a rod put in his arm. He could still hit his irons better than anyone at the club with that rod in his arm.” 

    The impact Jeff made on his home club will be sure to last as long as Camden CC is around by renaming an existing member-member event in his honor as the “Tin-Man.” 

    “It showed a kindness they returned back,” said Mary. “He was so loyal to them and the club. They thought so much of him to honor that way. Right before he died they gave him a flag that they all signed. It must have over 100 signatures on it. It was so heartfelt. He had just resigned from the club, he paid his dues up until the end.”