In Memoriam: Trustee Emeritus Reginald R. Webb

In Memoriam: Trustee Emeritus Reginald R. Webb

Entrepreneur, visionary leader, and longtime university friend Trustee Emeritus Reginald "Reggie" R. Webb passed away on July 20, 2024 at the age of 76.

The founder of Webb Family Enterprises Inc. built a legacy of transforming lives and uplifting communities he served, particularly through social equity enterprises. His dedication to education, charitable outreach, health, business, and social justice has left a lasting impact.

"Reginald was a beacon of strength, a loving husband, father, and a true leader. His life was a testament to the power of love and the impact one person can have on so many," reads a recent family message.

Born in South Bend, Indiana, Reggie moved to Southern California in 1959 with his grandmother at the age of 11. He grew up in South Central Los Angeles.

In the mid-1960s, Reggie served honorably in the U.S. Coast Guard. Following his discharge, he pursued political science at California State University in Los Angeles. During that time, he became actively involved in the War on Poverty, working for the Greater LA Community Action Agency and rising to a department management position.

In 1973, Reggie joined McDonald's accelerated management development program. After honing his skills in the restaurants, he transitioned to the corporate division. Over his 12-year tenure, he ascended to the role of regional vice president of Southern California. In 1985, the Webbs became McDonald's franchisees, starting with two restaurants in Pomona and expanding to Baldwin Park, Claremont, La Puente, Montclair, Ontario, and San Bernardino. As trailblazers in Black-owned franchises, the Webbs established Webb Family Enterprises as a model of successful franchise ownership, growing the business to 16 locations in the Inland Empire by the time Reggie retired in May 2021.

Reggie was deeply committed to the economic empowerment of Black and marginalized communities. Despite his success at McDonald's, he remained focused on helping others rise with him. He founded the Cooperative Economic Empowerment Movement (CEEM) to empower Black entrepreneurs in creating generational wealth for their families through business and community collaboration.

In December 2021, California State University, San Bernardino, recognized Reggie and his wife's contributions by awarding them honorary doctorates of humane letters.

Reggie served on numerous Boards of Directors throughout his illustrious career, including the Los Angeles Urban League and Pomona Valley Hospital. In 2004, he received the prestigious 365Black award from McDonald's, honoring his commitment to strengthening African American communities.

An advocate for higher education, Reggie encouraged his children to earn degrees before joining the family business. He joined the University of La Verne Board of Trustees in 2014, actively working on finance committees, generously supported scholarships, and taking time to mentor through campus African American organizations.

"He was deeply engaged, believing in our mission and community service. A tireless advocate for the underrepresented, his commitment to service is unparalleled," said Sherri Mylott, vice president of university advancement.

Reggie is survived by his beloved wife of more than 50 years, René Webb; his three children, sons Karim and Kyle, and daughter Kiana; six cherished grandchildren; and one great grandchild. In celebration of his life, the Webb family is collecting memories and messages for a video tribute.

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