William H. Webster, the only person in U.S. history to have led both the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), died Aug. 8 at the age of 101, his family said.
“The proud and loving family of the Honorable William H. Webster sadly announces the death of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and patriot,” his family said in a statement to several media outlets Friday.
Over the course of a public service career spanning more than six decades, Webster served in the U.S. Navy during both World War II and the Korean War, worked as a federal prosecutor, and spent about eight years as a federal judge before taking on senior national security roles.
In 1978, President Jimmy Carter nominated Webster to a 10-year term as FBI director. A Republican, Webster became known for steady leadership at a time when the bureau’s credibility was under strain. He served as FBI director until 1987.
President Ronald Reagan tapped Webster in 1987 to replace CIA Director William J. Casey, who had faced controversy over the agency’s handling of congressional oversight and its role in the Iran-Contra affair. Webster led the CIA until 1991, earning bipartisan respect for his approach to intelligence work.
"His passion for the rule of law and for the greatness of America made him a model public servant—and earned him the unique distinction of being the only person to have directed both the CIA and FBI," Bush said. "I am grateful for this good man’s many contributions to our country, and I send my condolences to [his wife] Lynda [Clugston Webster] and his family."
Even after retiring from government service, Webster remained active. He served on a presidential panel on homeland security following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and participated in a commission investigating security lapses at the FBI.
“His legacy will live on—in the IC [intelligence community], in government, and here at the International Spy Museum,” the organization said. “He will be missed dearly.”