Joseph Michael “Mike” Webb

AN  APPRECIATIVE  FAREWELL  TO  MIKE  WEBB

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Joseph Michael (Mike) Webb was born on March 14, 1946, in Calhoun Falls, South Carolina, to Joseph Franklin (Joe) Webb and Leuna Jean Fisher Webb.  He drew his last breath at 10:20 p.m. and passed into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 19, 2021.  He is predeceased by his parents and two siblings (Harry Adonis (Donnie) Webb and Ronnie Webb.  Living relatives include two nieces: Holley Lynette Webb,  his dedicated caregiver for 22 years, also Sarah Jean McDonald, and two great nephews: Shannon McCreary, Jr., and Shane McCreary.

Mike lived a full and satisfying life in the general Williamsburg area.  Mike will continue to serve as a role model to all who knew him.

A TENACIOUS DETERMINATION TO LEARN AND ACHIEVE:  Mike attended the Magruder Elementary School in Williamsburg, followed by homeschooling, then the Lynchburg Training School and Hospital Unit.  On June 16, 1970, he was awarded a certificate-of-completion for the Unit’s Automobile Servicing training course. Mike also participated in two Special Olympics sports – bowling and swimming.  Scoring the most points for his team, Mike maintained a long-time reputation for being the best bowler on his team. He also participated in diverse programs through “The Arc of Greater Williamsburg” (a United Way enrichment program designed for the disabled).  Bette Faye, his Arc coordinator remembers Mike as a 7-year attendee, who enjoyed a wide range of activities. “I can say that Mike LOVED Arc activities, attending many… such as Fitness Team sessions, Nutrition classes, Bingo, Movies, Bowling, Busch Gardens, Arts & Crafts, Watermen’s Museum arts nights & Folk Jams, all dances, sports events at William & Mary College, William & Mary team clinics, and Lifelong Learning classes – he was a “regular!!” The Arc made him smile!! We hadn’t seen Mike for a while but he continued to be a part of The Arc Family.”

HARD-WORKING AND PRODUCTIVE:  Mike contributed to the well-manicured beauty of the internationally renowned Colonial Williamsburg compound. For 36 years, neither summertime heat nor frigid winters, discouraged him from reporting to its Grounds Department as a committed employee.  Until his medically induced retirement from a heart condition, Mike maintained an excellent reputation at work, and loved his job. He continued to mow the lawn at his home until he was medically no longer able to.

BRAVE:  Mike made a conscious decision to overcome a strong fear of water, motivating himself to attend swimming classes and working simultaneously with 2 instructors.  His two coaches, Danny Pinkus and Tim Warren, applauded Mike for his healthy determination to meet the challenges of competition, and his good sportsmanship.  Both coaches were particularly impressed with Mike’s success in overcoming an extreme fear of the water. It took several years and a lot practice but Mike never gave up. His coaches rejoiced every accomplishment along the way from Mike’s journey of only sitting poolside completely dry to swimming ¾ the length of the pool. Mike’s coaches provided the following joint statement:  “Mike always came to practice with a smile and great can-do attitude, which we admire.  We’re both proud of him, and glad we could share in Mike’s happiness.”  He also overcame an apprehension about riding horses, quipping that he was finally able to mount a horse and ride one, “like a real cowboy.”

KIND AND GENTLE HEART:  Mike grew up enjoying the wilderness, respecting the environment, and following the principles of wildlife conservation.  He was devoted to his family and helped them raise several generations of hunting dogs.

SAVORING LIFE TO ITS FULLEST:  Mike loved fishing from an early age. He also enjoyed hunting deer and turkey with his relatives and eating the wild game they caught, at family gatherings.  He loved riding in boats, as well as exploring both  “town and country” in various types of on- and off-road cars and trucks.

Of the utmost significance to Mike and those who loved him, is the fact that he was a man of strong faith.  Mike was raised as a Southern Baptist, and attended church with his niece and dedicated caregiver, Holley Webb, throughout his adult life and into his senior years.  As a long-term member of the York River Baptist Church, he served as a choir member and usher.

Memorial Service will be  at the Bucktrout Funeral Home in Williamsburg, VA, from (time to time and date). Pastor Bill Cashman, former pastor of York River Baptist Church of Williamsburg, VA, will officiate over the service and Pastor Diane Stanley, a long-term family friend and pastor of the Gunton Park Church of God of Prophesy in Gunton Park, VA, will be singing. Followed by a procession to the cemetery. A Graveside service will be at (time and date).  Pastor Diane Stanley, will be officiating at a graveside service at the Williamsburg Memorial Cemetery in Williamsburg, VA.  Mike’s final resting place will be next to his Mother and Father.  Mike was blessed by his Lord and Savior, and in the way he chose to live his life, was a blessing to others.

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Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of the lord.

Matthew 25:23