Don Peabody, also known as Joesy Whales, the co-founder of Nevada-based GG Strains and co-creator of the Original Glue (GG4) cannabis variety, passed away May 6 at the age of 66.
“GG Strains has lost a legend this week, and the world has lost an amazing man,” the company announced in an Instagram post.
Peabody co-founded GG strains with the late Ross Johnson (aka Lone Watty), and the pair co-created the Original Glue cannabis variety (formally known as GG4), which rose to popularity after taking first place in the 2015 World Cannabis Cup.
The cultivar was also the focus of a now infamous trademark infringement lawsuit.
“Joesy popped a seed that has contributed to the transformation of the cannabis community in the last decade,” the company wrote on Instagram. “Joesy is known … as The Godfather/Co-Creator of ‘The Original Glue GG4 (fka Gorilla Glue 4).’ Those of us who were fortunate enough to know him personally, professionally, and [had] the privilege to work with Joesy have lost a dear friend and an inspiring mentor.”
GG Strains said it plans to honor Peabody’s memory through dedication to the work he loved, and that his legacy will live on through the company’s cultivars and collaborations with breeders.
A celebration of Peabody’s life will be planned once Nevada lifts some of its COVID-19-related restrictions, the company added.
Peabody is survived by his wife, Angela, and two children, as well as his lasting impact on the cannabis industry.
“Joesy leaves behind a vision and his spirit will forever be marked in the foundation of GG Strains LLC,” the company continued on Instagram. “No words can adequately express our sadness at Joesy’s death or our gratitude for the opportunity to work with him, and what he has created."
