THE passing of Don Wehby, on Saturday, at the age of 62, has triggered an outpouring of tributes from government officials and sporting bodies, all of whom have acknowledged the former GraceKennedy CEO’s extraordinary influence on Jamaican life, particularly in sport, youth development, and corporate leadership.
In a statement issued Sunday, the Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, praised Wehby for a life of purpose and transformational leadership.
“Don Wehby’s visionary leadership and strategic insight doubled the size [of] GraceKennedy and through the company’s legendary support of the Inter-Secondary Schoolboys and Girls Championships (Champs), the lives of thousands of student-athletes were touched with financial support and inspiration and his commitment to sports also saw his involvement in cricket and horse racing,” Minister Grange said.

She also highlighted Wehby’s wide-ranging impact across disciplines.
“GraceKennedy’s sponsorship extended to ISSA schoolboy cricket with the urban area high schools playing for the Grace Shield and he saw himself as also having a duty to West Indies cricket, which led to his chairing a task force that produced the ‘Wehby Report’ on the governance structure of Cricket West Indies (CWI).
“He was unwavering in his personal involvement in Champs, rarely ever missing a final. He played a huge part in Champs gaining the reputation of being the most popular high school track and field meet in the world.

“He was definitely a strong advocate for youth development through sports,” she continued.
Minister Grange also paid tribute to Wehby’s stint in public service, noting:
“In addition to all his other commitments, Mr Wehby was also moved to serve his country in the political arena and so accepted an appointment to the Senate where he served as Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance during the Bruce Golding administration.”
“For all his life, Don Wehby was highly passionate and driven in all of his undertakings, inside the boardroom and outside of it. His leadership style and vision demonstrated a commitment to excellence.

“The Government was most pleased to award him the National Honour, Order of Jamaica, last year and this year present him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his exceptional contribution to the development of youth and sports in Jamaica; to go with his Induction into the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica Hall of Fame and the other recognitions that he has been accorded.

“My sincerest sympathy to his wife Hilary and his children, Stephanie, Abigail, and Nicholas; and to his relatives, friends, and associates and to the GraceKennedy family.
“Jamaica has lost a truly great son with the departure of Donald George Wehby, who is gone too soon.
“Rest in Peace Don.”

The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) also expressed its sorrow in a message issued by President Garth Gayle, who called Wehby a pillar in the sporting community.
“The JAAA and the entire track and field fraternity are deeply saddened by the passing of distinguished statesman and renowned business leader, the Honourable Don Wehby,” Gayle said.
“Mr Wehby was a cornerstone in the building of our sport. His tangible support to our teams, individuals, and development programmes ensured continuous success. A passionate sportsman himself, Mr Wehby was always delighted with Jamaica’s successes and was willing to lend a hand in times of need. Sincere condolences to his family and the Grace family. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) also offered a heartfelt tribute, citing the unique role Wehby played in strengthening the organisation and its events.
“The Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) is deeply saddened by the loss of Mr. Don Wehby, former CEO of GraceKennedy.

“Over the past two decades, Mr Wehby has been instrumental in providing corporate sponsorship for various ISSA competitions, notably the ISSA Boys and Girls Champs and Schoolboy cricket.
“His contributions extended beyond sponsorships, as he played a significant role in helping ISSA develop its brand through Greenfield Media. He also assisted in building our organisational structure and leadership capacity. Mr Wehby’s unwavering support for National and Youth Development, particularly through sports, made our partnership a special one.
“We hope to meet you again, Sir Wehby!

“We extend our sincere condolences to the Wehby family and the entire GraceKennedy Family.”
Wehby’s support for Grace Shield cricket, his instrumental role in producing the Wehby Report on governance at Cricket West Indies, and his commitment to elevating Champs into one of the world’s most admired youth track meets are just part of a rich legacy that has left an indelible mark on Jamaican society. (Sportsmax)