Richard Webb was the only son, and second child of George Robert Holden Webb and Jessie Muriel Webb. He had two sisters, Rhona Mary and Cynthia Holden. He married Barbara Anne Griffin daughter of Richard Fairbrother and Janet Katharine Bower Griffin. Two children, Michael Richard Holden Webb and Louise Katharine Webb.

Sir Richard Webb was a career soldier.

He departed for World War II a Lieutenant within the 6th Field Regiment, 2NZEF. He served later in Headquarters British Commonwealth Occupation Force (Japan) and K Force (1950-1952).

He was CGS 1970 - 1971 and Chief of the Defence Staff 1971 - 1975. He retired in 1975 with the rank of Lieutenant General.

There was a full military Funeral at Wellington Cathedral and a interment service for his ashes at Waimate North

Later Chief of General Staff and Chief of Defence Force. Awarded KBE and CB. AWMM