Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Pays Tribute to Don Wehby

As tributes continue to pour in following the passing of former GraceKennedy Group CEO Don Wehby, Jamaican sprint legend and GraceKennedy Ambassador Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has remembered the late corporate titan as a transformational leader defined by grace, grit, and an unwavering commitment to Jamaica.

Wehby, who passed away on Saturday at age 62, was a towering figure in Jamaican business and an unwavering supporter of youth development and sport, particularly through GraceKennedy’s long-standing sponsorship of the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Championships. His leadership also saw GraceKennedy back initiatives like schoolboy cricket and grassroots programmes that shaped the nation’s athletic foundation.

But for Fraser-Pryce, Wehby’s impact went far beyond business.

“Don Wehby was transformational. A leader of immense stature, but even greater heart,” the multiple-time Olympic and World Champion shared. “Over the course of my career, I’ve had the blessing of learning from Don, not just in the context of business, but in life,” she remarked. “His fortitude, his fierce sense of purpose, and his unwavering commitment to excellence were unmatched. He was a competitor in his own right, always striving to meet the high standards he set, not for personal gain, but for the benefit of others, for the good of Jamaica.”

Fraser-Pryce reflected on the deep personal connection she built with Wehby over the years.

“To know Don was to witness grace and grit in perfect balance. He was the kind of leader who made you feel seen, valued, and capable of more. And that’s exactly what he did for me. What began as a partnership with GraceKennedy has, over the years, become something much deeper, a relationship rooted in trust, mutual respect, and family. That’s because of Don. He built that bridge.”

A proud Jamaican, Wehby’s love for country was at the heart of all he did, Fraser-Pryce added.

“Don Wehby was Jamaican born and bred, and he never forgot it. He poured everything he was—his intellect, his passion, his integrity—into uplifting this country and everyone around him. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the principles he championed, and the standard he set for generations to come.”

In closing, Fraser-Pryce offered condolences to Wehby’s family and the wider GraceKennedy team.

“I will miss his counsel, his laughter, and the quiet strength he carried into every room. My deepest prayers are with his wife Hilary, his children Nicholas, Stephanie, Abigail, and the entire GraceKennedy family. Walk good, my friend. You ran your race with distinction.”

Wehby’s legacy continues to be celebrated across sectors, with a scholarship and sportsmanship award at Champs already named in his honour, ensuring his contributions to youth, sports, and nation-building will endure.