James Edward Webb
1944—2026
James Edward Webb, a beloved educator, talented musician and skilled luthier, passed away in Frankfort, Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.
He lived most of his quiet life on Stidham Lane in Martin County.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years Linda Webb, his brother Larry Webb with his wife Willa, his son Jim Webb with his wife Sarah, his daughter Kristen Webb, and his grandchildren Jimmy Webb, Joey Webb and MacKenzie Hill. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and a humble and kind person.
James was born Oct. 22, 1944, in Morganfield to Evanell Hinkle Webb and was raised by his mother and his grandparents Crit and Ina Hinkle. Crit and Ina owned and operated a general store on Milo Road where James and his cousins frequented.
He graduated from Tomahawk Elementary School, Inez High School and Morehead State University. Upon graduation from college, James married his high school sweetheart Linda Buskirk and had two children.
James taught at Tomahawk Elementary School then at Inez Middle School. After teaching for several years, he became principal of Inez Elementary School.
In addition to educating the children in Martin County for decades, James owned and operated a musical repair shop that gained a storied reputation among music enthusiasts for his craftsmanship and his love for stringed instruments and bluegrass music. That passion was often on display as he played and listened to music at home and at his shop, always mentoring and encouraging others to join him.
James played in several bluegrass groups over the years and loved playing gospel music at church.
James and Linda were active members of the Methodist Church and served in various leadership roles throughout the years.
James was loved dearly by the community and his family members. He will be deeply missed. He taught us patience, to treat others with respect, not to be judgmental, to be dependable, to live life honestly, and to work hard. He was a prankster, a jokester, an inspiration, a trustworthy person and a friend.
Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, at the Callaham Funeral Home in Inez. Friends may visit at the funeral home Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Arrangements are under the direction of the Callaham Funeral Home, Inez.