Who Are Russell Henley’s Parents? PGA Tour Pro’s Supporting Pillars Explored

Not many know about the people who stood by Russell Henley through it all—his parents. Before he became a PGA Tour star, before the tournament wins and the worldwide recognition, he was just a kid from Georgia with a supportive family that shaped his journey. 

Henley’s success isn’t just a result of his talent and hard work; it’s also a testament to the values instilled in him by his family. Raised in Georgia, he grew up with strong support from his parents, Sally and the late Dr. Chapin Henley. His father, a dedicated doctor with a heart for service, played a significant role in shaping not just his son’s career but also his character. So, who are the people who stood by him long before the trophies and accolades? Let’s dive into the story of the Henley family.

Meet Sally and Dr. Chapin Henley

Russell Henley wasn’t the only child in the household—he grew up alongside his three siblings, Matt, Adam, and Elizabeth. While his mother, Sally, has largely stayed out of the spotlight, his father’s legacy is one that Russell has spoken about with deep admiration.

Dr. Chapin Henley wasn’t just a supportive dad watching from the sidelines; he was a man dedicated to changing lives. As a highly respected gynecologist and obstetrician, he helped bring over 5,000 babies into the world. But, his journey didn’t stop at medicine. He pursued his education at Vanderbilt University, continued at Emory University’s seminary, and later earned his medical degree from the University of Florida. His passion for serving others extended well beyond his professional career. Even after retiring in 2003, he wasn’t done making an impact—he founded the Macon Volunteer Clinic, offering free medical care to those without insurance.

Sadly, in July 2024, Dr. Henley passed away at the age of 85 after battling leukemia and heart failure.

Losing a parent is never easy, and for Russell Henley, the passing of his father left a deep void. In September 2024, a couple of months after Dr. Chapin Henley’s passing, Russell spoke candidly about his emotions in an interview with Fox Sports. “He was battling the last couple of years, so I don’t know if I’ve just gotten used to being sad about it. It’s been a battle. He loved watching me play. He’s been watching me play until he couldn’t watch anymore because he was just too sick. But he was there,” he shared.

His father had been his biggest fan, watching him compete for as long as his health allowed. And even though he’s no longer physically present, his influence continues to guide Russell both on and off the course.

Carrying on the legacy

Russell didn’t just mourn his father’s passing—he found a way to honor him in a lasting, meaningful way. In memory of Dr. Henley’s lifelong dedication to helping others, he established the Chapin Henley M.D. Scholarship Fund to support post-secondary education for employees and dependents of Idle Hour Country Club, a place deeply connected to the Henley family.

On the scholarship’s official website, Russell shared a heartfelt tribute to his father – “This scholarship is a tribute to my dad, Chapin Henley, who has always been an inspiration to me. Against the odds, he worked hard and became a doctor. He really cared about his patients, often treating people who couldn’t pay him. Through this fund, I hope to give back to others like my dad has. I want this scholarship to help people who are trying to better themselves.”

It’s clear that the values of hard work, kindness, and perseverance instilled by his father have shaped him into the man he is today. Whether it’s through his career, his character, or his charitable efforts, Russell continues to carry this legacy forward.

While the foundation of Russell’s life was built by his parents, the family he has created plays an equally important role in his journey. His wife, Teil Duncan, and their three children have become his greatest source of love and support, standing by him through every high and low. Just like his father was always there for him, Russell now embraces that role for his own family—proving that some legacies don’t just live on; they grow.