Richard W. Webb

The Honorable Richard W. Webb, 72, of Palmerton, passed away Saturday, August 20, in his home, surrounded by family. He was the husband of Janet L. (Comba) Webb. They were married 50 years this past January. Judge Webb became Carbon County's 15th Judge when sworn in on January 6, 1992. In November 2001 he was elected for a second 10-year term commencing January 7, 2002. He became President Judge on February 18, 2001, when then President Judge John P. Lavelle retired. A lifetime resident of Palmerton, Judge Webb received his early education in the Palmerton public school system. After earning a degree at Pennsylvania State University in 1966, he went on to the University of Pittsburgh Law School where he was awarded a Juris Doctor degree in 1969. Following graduation from law school, Judge Webb worked briefly for Arthur Andersen in Pittsburgh. He then returned to Palmerton where he practiced law with his father before embarking on his career in public service. From 1973 to 1975, he served as a Public Defender, and in November 1975 he won election to the office of District Attorney. For the next 16 years, he established an outstanding reputation for integrity, diligence, ability, and a courtroom prosecutor who rarely lost a case. During his tenure as District Attorney, Judge Webb founded the Carbon County Drug Task Force and received many awards and citations for his tenacious prosecution of drug cases. He took early retirement in 2004, but continued to serve Carbon County as a Senior Judge handling various types of cases. He was a longtime member of St. John's Episcopal Church in Palmerton, where he served honorably and faithfully for many years as a Chalice Bearer. Born in Palmerton, he was a son of the late Sidney and Ellen (Williams) Webb. Survivors: Wife Janet; son Richard Jr. and wife Sue-Ann, with grandchildren Sidney, Gavin and Leah, all in Allentown; son Thomas and wife Angela, with granddaughter Francesca ("Frankie"), all in Palmerton. Judge Webb was predeceased by his stepmother Emma S. Webb, and aunt Jane Werley. Services: To be held privately, at the convenience of family. Public welcome to call 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, August 24 at T.K. Thomas Funeral Home, 145 Delaware Ave, Palmerton. Contributions: St. John's Episcopal Church, 365 Lafayette Ave, or Palmerton Memorial Park Assn, 1255 Third St, both in Palmerton 18071.