Former Augusta National Golf Club chairman William "Hootie" Johnson died Friday. He was 86. 

The Masters Tournament confirmed the news with a statement from current Augusta chairman Billy Payne, who said Johnson leaves behind "a legacy of exceptional service to our Club, our Tournament and the game of golf."

"He boldly directed numerous course improvements to ensure that Augusta National would always represent the very finest test of golf," Payne said. "Simultaneously, Hootie expanded television coverage of the Masters, improved qualification standards for invitation to the Tournament and reopened the series badge waiting list for the first time in more than 20 years. Many of these measures brought more people than ever closer to the Masters and inspired us to continue exploring ways to welcome people all over the world to the Tournament and the game of golf."

Johnson took over the role of Augusta chairman in May 1998 and remained in that position through May 2006 before stepping down. Payne said the club plans to "privately honor" his memory in the coming days by working with his family to commemorate his "extraordinary life."

The Augusta, Georgia native also rose to prominence in the business world by serving as the chairman of the Bank of America executive committee.

His time leading Augusta National wasn't without controversy.

Johnson faced a wave of criticism for his unrelenting stance that the club wouldn't admit female members during his time as chairman. Stan Awtrey of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution noted he defended himself against claims of bigotry and sexist discrimination in 2003.

"I do have a reputation for fighting against discrimination," Johnson said. "I have a good record and I'm proud of it. But our private club does not discriminate. Single gender is an important fabric on the American scene. There are thousands and thousands all across America. Both genders. Health clubs, sewing circles, Junior League, Shriner's, and we should not—and we're not—discriminating. And we resent it very much when that accusation is made against us."

When Augusta decided to reverse course under Payne's leadership in 2012, Johnson nominated fellow South Carolina financial sector standout Darla Moore as one of the first female members, according to the AJC. Moore was joined by former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.