Leland Franklin Webb: A Pioneer in Christian Media Passes Away at 91
RICHMOND, Va. (IMB) – Leland Franklin Webb, a writer and editor at the International Mission Board (IMB) for 32 years, passed away on January 8, 2024, at the age of 91. Although his name may not be widely recognized, Webb played a crucial role in revolutionizing modern Christian media. Through his work as the editor of The Commission magazine, an IMB publication, Webb introduced popular storytelling techniques that brought the stories of IMB missionaries and their ministry to life. His vision was to use compelling photography and on-the-scene coverage to connect Southern Baptists with the realities of international missions.
Webb’s tenure as the editor of The Commission magazine spanned 15 years, during which he brought a contemporary shift to the publication. He believed in the power of professional photos and engaging writing to captivate readers and immerse them in the day-to-day lives of missionaries. This approach proved to be successful, inspiring many Southern Baptists to deepen their concern and knowledge for missions.
Reflecting on the impact of The Commission magazine, Webb once said, “Because of [the magazine], many advocates of missions bowed their heads in prayer and reached into their pockets to give extra dollars.” His research in 1993 revealed that nearly 46% of career missionaries were influenced by the magazine, which helped them explore their calling and develop a passion for specific people groups or regions.
Paul Chitwood, the president of IMB, praised Webb for his dedication to spreading awareness about mission work. He described The Commission magazine as a powerful tool for motivating and inspiring Southern Baptists, and expressed deep gratitude for Webb’s contributions to the IMB and the kingdom of God.
Webb’s impact extended beyond the pages of The Commission magazine. As a reporter and photographer, he traveled to more than 35 countries, capturing the work of God and sharing it with Southern Baptists. He also authored two mission study books, “How in this World” and “Cultivating for Tomorrow,” further enriching the understanding of missions within the community.
Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, Webb graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. In addition to his full-time job at IMB, he served as a supply preacher and spoke at numerous churches in Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia. He was an active member of Lakeside Baptist Church in Henrico, Virginia, for over 60 years, where he contributed as a trustee, deacon, and Sunday Bible class teacher.
After retiring from IMB in 1995, Webb pursued his passion for music and became a saxophone player in various local bands. He also volunteered over 3,100 hours for the Henrico County Police Division.
Webb’s wife, Geneva, passed away in 2021, shortly before their 67th anniversary. He is survived by his two children, Kathryn Bradley and Charles F. Webb, as well as seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
A visitation for family and friends will be held at Woody’s Funeral Home on Parham Road on January 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Lakeside Baptist Church on Woodman Road at 10 a.m. on January 12, followed by interment at Westhampton Memorial Cemetery.
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