John Ackroyd Webster, Jr.

Dr. John Ackroyd Webster, Jr., inventor of the bacterial identification method Ribotyping, passed away on February 22, 2026, in West Chester, Pennsylvania following a brief illness. Born on April 18, 1951, in St. Albans, New York, to John Ackroyd Webster, Sr. and Isabelle Jeanne Webster, John’s passion for science and research illuminated his life.

John completed his undergraduate studies in Biology at the College of William & Mary in 1973. He continued his education at George Washington University, where he was awarded a Master’s degree in Microbiology in 1976 and went on to earn his Ph.D. in 1982.

Upon completing his doctorate, John joined E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. where he worked from 1983 until 1998, concluding his corporate career as a Senior Research Microbiologist. His contributions to the company were significant, leading to commercialization of the Riboprinter.  Ribotyping and the Riboprinter influenced microbiologists worldwide and continue to do so. 

His work was recognized with three core patents issued in seven countries and in key journal articles.

In 2000, he embarked on a new venture as the President of Taxonometrics, Inc., a role he fulfilled with great dedication until his passing.

John is survived by his wife, Anne Gates Webster, son John Ackroyd Webster, III and daughter-in-law Erica C. Webster. Also, his sister, Susan Webster Cavalieri and her children Sandra Cavalieri, Adrian Cavalieri and Madeline Cavalieri Precht.

Beyond his professional and family commitments, John had a deep appreciation for nature in all its forms, especially the forest at Grindstone Island, Clayton, N.Y.

He was an avid cook who delighted in experimenting with new recipes and flavors.

John’s memory will be treasured by those who knew him as a mentor, colleague, ever generous friend and devoted father and husband. In bidding farewell to John, we celebrate a life marked by the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Save The River, 409 Riverside Drive, Clayton, NY 13624.

Interment will be private.