James Edward Webb

James Edward Webb 1927 - 2025

James Edward Webb, 97, was born to Oree and Mamie Boykin Webb on September 21, 1927, in Sylvarena, MS and passed into Glory on January 28, 2025, at UMC in Jackson.

James entered the US Navy in August of 1945 and studied electrical engineering. He served on the USS Ronquil until his Honorable discharge in November 1947. He continued in the electrical field and then began to learn masonry.

On July 1, 1950, he married the love of his life, Bonnie Bass Webb. During their 741/2 years together he achieved many goals, inspired many people, and shared his knowledge of electrical engineering and Masonry with anyone who would listen. He became a Master Mason and Master Carpenter.

He was proud to call McComb his home, and invested time in the community by serving as a Masonry teacher at SMCC, serving as a Deacon at Locust Street Baptist church and assisting with rebuilding the church. His greatest achievement was begun in 1951, when he and Bonnie began to build a wonderful family. Little did they know that beginning was going to transpire into 5 children, 7 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren.

He taught and showed his family determination by not only earning his GED at the age of 54, but earning an Associate of Arts at the age of 70. In his free time, he loved to wood carve, paint, and spend time with family.

Those who passed before him include his parents, his 2 brothers, 4 sisters and his 2 sons: Jimmy Webb and Donald Webb.

Those who remain to inspire and share his legacy include his wife, Bonnie Bass Webb; daughters Joan Waller (Jim), Becky Williams (Dennis), Angi Webb (Terri), and a daughter-in-law Vickie Webb; grandchildren Missi Waller, Kim W. Morgan (Charley), Kenny Waller (Chrystal), Whitney Webb, Danny Webb, Kalem Williams (Stephanie), and Jessica Levin (Nick); 17 greatgrandchildren; 5 greatgreat-grandchildren.

The Celebration of James’ life was held on February 1, at Hartman-Jones with visitation at 12PM followed by services at 2PM. Navy Military Honors were presented at Hollywood Cemetery. Rev. Rick Kennedy did officiate.

Pallbearers were great-grandsons Jacob Baumgartner, Blake Baumgartner, Hayden Morgan, Isaac Morgan, Andy Waller, Luis Solorio, Jake Rainey, Michael Webb, Damian Webb, and Shawn Webb.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to continue his legacy be sent to the Greater Hope Ministry homeless Shelter, which is located in the former home of Locust Street Baptist Church in McComb.