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DC 37 mourns passing of James Webb, union and community leader

James A. Webb, a leader for decades in the union, the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists and his Harlem community, passed away June 4.

Webb worked at several city hospitals as a Nurses Aide and retired in 1988.

“James was a tireless activist on behalf of our members, the labor movement and his community,” said Carmen Charles, president of Municipal Hospital Employees Local 420, at his June 10 memorial service.

Webb served as president of CBTU’s New York Chapter and founded its Jim Bell Scholarship Fund and its Men’s Committee. “He was an inspiration to all of us,” said former Local 1655 President Donald Afflick, who succeeded Webb as chapter president, at the service.

Webb organized for the African American Day Parade in Harlem and after retiring continued his activism with CBTU and community groups.

Mr. Webb is survived by one son, Toussaint J. Webb, a member of Motor Vehicle Operators Local 983, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

“My father was a real inspiration to me and always stressed the importance of a strong union movement,” said his son.