July 14, 1963 - July 26, 2025
Retired GraceKennedy CEO dies at 62
Remembered as visionary leader
Published:Monday | July 28, 2025 | 12:08 AMTanesha Mundle/Staff Reporter
Described as a man of unwavering integrity, visionary leadership, and deep national commitment, Don Wehby’s passing on Saturday has stirred a wave of heartfelt tributes from across Jamaica and the Caribbean.
The retired GraceKennedy Group chief executive officer and former government senator died at 62 following a period of illness.
Wehby retired in February as Group CEO of GraceKennedy Limited, capping a transformative 14-year tenure at the helm. Under his leadership, the 103-year-old conglomerate more than doubled its revenues from J$58 billion in 2011 to J$155 billion in 2023, and broadened its global footprint through strategic mergers and acquisitions.
He joined GraceKennedy in 1995, rose through the ranks of both its food and financial arms, and was appointed Group CEO in 2011 following the retirement of Douglas Orane. Even as the company expanded across the Caribbean, North America, the UK, and Europe, Wehby insisted that corporate success be grounded in national responsibility.
“Don was known not just for his professional excellence, but for his character, kind, gracious, deeply principled, and unwaveringly committed to Jamaica’s future,” said Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, calling Wehby a “visionary leader” who guided both GraceKennedy and the nation with integrity.
“We mourn the passing of a respected former government senator and a visionary leader whose influence spanned both public service and private enterprise,” added the prime minister, who also praised Wehby’s transformative leadership at GraceKennedy.
TREMENDOUS LOSS
Reflecting on Wehby’s public service contributions, including his service as senator, Holness said he not only served with dignity, but also offered wisdom, mentorship, and a firm belief in the potential of his homeland.
“His passing is a tremendous loss for his family, colleagues, and the nation he so passionately served,” he added, while expressing condolences to his family.
Opposition Leader Mark Golding, who worked with Wehby during his time on GraceKennedy’s board, described him as “a personal friend” and “a nation-builder” whose life of service strengthened both public institutions and private enterprise.
“His passing represents the close of a chapter of national service,” Golding said. “His contributions to public policy and private enterprise have played a meaningful part in Jamaica’s development story.”
Wehby’s business acumen earned GraceKennedy the RJRGLEANER Honour Award for Business in 2021, and Wehby himself was honoured with membership in the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) in 2017 and the Order of Jamaica in 2024, the country’s fourth-highest honour.
In April of this year, the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) announced Wehby as its 31st Hall of Fame inductee.
PSOJ President Metry Seaga called his passing “a tremendous loss”.
“We have lost a true titan of industry and a servant leader whose life’s work has left an indelible mark on Jamaica,” Seaga said. “Don Wehby led with conviction, humility, and heart.”
He also lauded Wehby for serving the organisation with distinction in the roles of vice-president, honorary treasurer, and as part of the Economic Policy Committee.
“His insights shaped key advocacy efforts and always reflected a deep, unwavering commitment to Jamaica’s prosperity,” Seaga added. “Beyond his official roles, Don Wehby was a consistent voice of reason, a generous mentor, and a unifying presence within the private sector.”
He noted that Wehby’s leadership extended beyond business, with a passion for youth development, education, and sports, including his pivotal role in expanding the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships.
However, Wehby’s influence extended far beyond the boardroom. He was a two-time senator, a Cabinet minister from 2007 to 2009, and a vocal advocate for economic reform and youth development.
The Caribbean Private Sector Organization (CPSO) remembered him as “a regional icon” whose corporate vision supported deeper CARICOM economic integration and cross-border partnerships.
REMARKABLE LEADER
“A consummate corporate leader, Mr Wehby was a true visionary whose monumental work epitomised and significantly furthered the vision of private sector-led regional growth. His passion and leadership were instrumental in driving successful business integration within CARICOM, and between the region and key international markets such as the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, and Central America,” the CPSO added.
GraceKennedy described Wehby as a “remarkable leader” whose impact would be felt for generations to come.
“His legacy will live on in the countless lives he uplifted and the generations he inspired.”
In the meantime, Wehby’s family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support in the aftermath of his death.
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Don, who died peacefully on July 26, surrounded by his family,” they said in a statement on Sunday.
“Don was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend whose unwavering faith and generosity touched countless lives. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this time and kindly ask for privacy as we grieve,” the statement added.
Wehby is survived by his wife, Hilary, and their three children: Stephanie, Nicholas, and Abigail.