Theodore E. “Ted” Webster Sr. was a self-made businessman, trailblazer, devoted father and grandfather, and tireless advocate whose life’s work created opportunities for generations of others. Born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Ted was the son of the late James W. Webster and Mae McElrath-Webster. At the age of 16 years, he moved to Boston, Massachusetts following his then sweetheart, and built a life defined by determination, courage, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to fairness. Ted was never interested in success for himself alone. He understood that his influence and advocacy could create access to opportunity that would change not only one life, but the future of entire families.

Ted began his working life as a mechanic at Mack Trucks. After building his expertise through a series of hands-on roles, Ted took a bold step in the mid-1970s and founded Webster Excavating and Engineering Co. Inc. For more than three decades, he led the company as its CEO, combining leadership and technical skill, tireless determination, and entrepreneurial vision to build a thriving business and established himself as a respected leader in Boston’s construction industry.

Ted’s vision extended far beyond his own success. At a time when Black men and women living in Boston’s urban communities were routinely denied access to union building trades, he was a steadfast advocate for equitable opportunities for workers and minority contractors throughout the city. He founded the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Association of Minority Contractors and held leadership positions with the Contractors Association of Boston and the Massachusetts Alliance for Small Contractors. Passionate, determined, and unafraid to challenge the status quo, Ted was always ready for a good fight – especially when the cause was just. His influence helped create pathways to stable careers, financial security, and generational wealth for countless individuals and families. The doors he helped open remain an enduring part of his legacy.

His generosity extended far beyond his professional life. Ted gave freely of his time, resources, and spirit to family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. If someone needed a helping hand, he was there – steadfast, compassionate, and ready to do whatever he could.

Ted knew how to live fully. He had a lifelong passion for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and treasured the freedom of the open road. He could often be found riding the winding roads of Laconia or making his annual trip to Montreal for the city’s jazz festival. Music was another great love, particularly the legendary jazz and blues artists of earlier generations. Ted was also an avid reader with a deep interest in history, especially the Civil War. He was rarely without a book—or his Kindle—nearby. Curious and engaged, he remained a lifelong student of the people, events, and struggles that shaped the world around him.

A three-time cancer survivor, Ted met life’s greatest challenges with extraordinary strength, courage, and resilience. Even illness could not diminish his independent spirit or his passion for riding. Over the years, Ted assembled an impressive collection of custom Harleys. He took his final motorcycle ride in August 2026—a fitting expression of the freedom, determination, and love of life that defined him.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, James W. Webster and Mae McElrath-Webster; his sister, Rose McElrath; and his brothers, James W. Webster II and Henry M. Webster. He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Jimmy L. Marshall, Shelley M. Webster, Martia P. West, and Theodore E. Webster Jr.; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of relatives, friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives were changed by his presence.

Ted’s legacy cannot be measured solely by the company he built, the titles he held, or the battles he fought. It lives in the careers he helped launch, the businesses he helped advance, the families who gained greater security because of the opportunities he championed, and the many people who experienced his generosity and steadfast support.

His impact was profound. His influence was far-reaching, and the doors he opened will remain open for generations to come.

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In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ted's memory to

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