James Thomas Virdell

James Thomas Virdell was born on July 11, 1947, to James Willard and Margaret Virdell, the second of five children. He grew up in South Texas and graduated from Edinburg High School in May 1965. Just a week before graduation, he was involved in a serious automobile accident that left him with a broken back and changed the course of his life, preventing him from pursuing military service.

Despite this early hardship, JT built a long and accomplished career through determination and a strong work ethic. From 1965 to 1967, he worked for American Optical in Dallas, where he learned numerous positions in the lab and ultimately mastered the lens grinder. In June 1967, he joined Pollock Paper Company as a packer, all while pursuing further education. Attending Elkins School of Electronics and Broadcasting at night, he earned his FCC Radio-Telephone License and a diploma in Broadcasting, graduating in April 1968.

JT then worked as an electrician for LTV from May to November 1968. With rumors of layoffs, he secured a management position at Arby’s but soon recognized his long-term ambitions lay elsewhere. In 1969, he began what would become a decades-long career with Southwestern Bell Telephone.

He started as a frame man, attending several foundational schools before moving to the Fleetwood Central Office, where he gained his essential training. From May 1970 to August 1973, he served as a switchman in the Emerson Central Office. Between 1973 and 1976, he worked as an exchange repairman, handling everything from equipment sales to line repairs and accounting reports. From 1976 to 1982, he served as a PBX installer at 1309 Main, learning key system engineering and working with major accounts across the Northwest Dallas area. In 1983, JT was transferred to Jett Street as a Network Services Supervisor, later transitioning to the role of system technician. He worked many jobs before settling down with SWBT in 1969 and retiring in 2000. He then worked at Guaranty Bank from 2000 and 2007. Throughout his career, he continued to develop his expertise and took pride in providing reliable service to countless customers.

For 20 years, JT and Deanna travelled and set up in different shows and events displaying and selling jewelry and other items that Deanna created.

JT was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Deanna Wilson Virdell, whom he married in 1972. He is survived by his three sisters; Susan, Carol and Linda; brother Robert (Butch) and lots and lots of beautiful friends and relatives. He carried deep appreciation for the people who influenced his life and supported him along the way, including his parents, Gerald Hanley, Carl Haynes, Pop Ursery, Ron Avery, and Omer Dement.

JT will be remembered for his perseverance, his dedication to learning, and his steady commitment to his work and family. His life stands as a testament to quiet strength, steadfast determination, and his impeccable sense of humor.