Remembering Don Wehby: A Life of Purpose, Service, and Integrity

Kingston, Jamaica — The island of Jamaica is mourning the loss of one of its most respected sons — businessman, public servant, and nation-builder Don Wehby, who passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the age of 62.

A man widely admired for his vision, humility, and unwavering commitment to national development, Don Wehby’s legacy transcends boardrooms and political chambers — touching the lives of everyday Jamaicans through his leadership, service, and generosity.

The Corporate Architect

Wehby’s professional journey began in 1995 when he joined GraceKennedy Limited, one of Jamaica’s most iconic conglomerates. Rising through the ranks with quiet determination and fierce integrity, he was appointed Group CEO in 2011.

Over the next 14 years, he transformed GraceKennedy into a modern, globally connected enterprise. Revenue more than doubled under his leadership — from J$58 billion in 2011 to J$155 billion in 2023 — while the company expanded into new markets across the Caribbean, North America, and the UK. Under his watch, GraceKennedy was listed on multiple stock exchanges and solidified its role as a symbol of Jamaican excellence.

“He was more than a CEO,” said one longtime GraceKennedy employee. “He was a mentor, a motivator, and above all, a man of character.”

A Servant of the People

But Wehby was not content to lead from the boardroom alone.

In 2007, he entered public life, serving as a Government Senator and Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance. He returned to the Senate in 2016 and continued to contribute to national dialogue until stepping down in 2024 due to health concerns.

Despite never seeking the spotlight, Wehby became a voice of reason in public affairs — advocating for fiscal discipline, youth empowerment, and ethical governance.

“Don was the bridge between business and government,” said PSOJ President Metry Seaga. “He brought integrity to every room he entered.”

Honours and Hallmarks

Wehby’s remarkable career earned him numerous accolades:

• Order of Distinction (Commander Class) – 2017
• Order of Jamaica – 2024
• PSOJ Hall of Fame Inductee – 2025
• GKMS/Western Union CHAMPS ICON – 2025

But it was never about titles. For Wehby, recognition came not from awards, but from impact.

He was especially passionate about youth and sports development, playing a key role in elevating ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls’ Championships (CHAMPS) to a world-class event.

Tributes From All Corners

From business leaders to schoolchildren, tributes have poured in.

Opposition Leader Mark Golding described Wehby as “a personal friend and a man whose life reflected dedication to service and principle.”

Olympic champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce remembered him as “a leader of immense stature, but even greater heart.”

In a statement, GraceKennedy called him “a remarkable leader, mentor, and friend — whose vision, values, and voice shaped the DNA of our company.”

Family Man Above All

Beyond the accolades and accomplishments, Don Wehby was a devoted husband and father. His family, in a statement, shared:

“He gave his best to Jamaica, but he gave his heart to us.”

Final Reflections

Don Wehby’s life reminds us that leadership is not about titles, but about service. That success is not measured only in dollars, but in impact. And that the truest legacies are built not with bricks, but with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

As Jamaica mourns, it also celebrates a man who walked humbly, led boldly, and served selflessly.

Rest in peace, Don Wehby. You led with grace. You served with honour. You will not be forgotten.