Troy Datcher, Cannabis Industry Trailblazer and Former Parent Company CEO, Dies

Datcher, the first Black CEO of a major publicly traded cannabis company, passed away "following a brief hospitalization," according to Gold Flora.

Gold Flora Corporation announced March 1 in a press release the loss of Troy Datcher, chairman of the board, who passed away on Feb. 26, 2024, following a brief hospitalization. 

"Troy exhibited remarkable dedication in his mission to effect positive change and empower others to do the same," said Laurie Holcomb, chief executive officer of Gold Flora, a vertically integrated cannabis company and brand based in California. "His vision for an industry based on diversity, equality, and community was an inspiration to all of us who benefited from the opportunity to work with him. He broke barriers as the first Black CEO of a major publicly traded cannabis company and strove to elevate others alongside himself. He will be missed by all of us who knew and worked with him, and we offer our sincerest condolences to his wife, daughter, and mother, as well as all his many friends and family." 

Datcher served as the chief executive officer of The Parent Company from September 2021 until its merger with Gold Flora in July 2023, following which he continued in his role as chairman of the board. Prior to his time with The Parent Company, he served as an executive at The Clorox Company for 20 years, as well as three years with NASCAR.

Tributes from people who knew and worked with Datcher were posted on social media pages, including X and LinkedIn. 

 

Datcher's seat on the Board of Directors will remain vacant through the remainder of the term, according to Gold Flora. 

"The Company and the Gold Flora management team will miss Troy greatly, and join his family, friends, and many past colleagues in mourning this tremendous loss."