James "Jimmy" Durwood Varnier Jr.

With family by his side, James “Jimmy” Durwood Varnier Jr. passed peacefully during the afternoon of Dec 31, 2024, at the age of 83. He was born March 31, 1941, oldest son of the late James “Durwood” Varnier Sr. and Vernell “Pat” Vaughan Varnier.

Within his immediate family, Jimmy is survived by his daughters Lori S. Martin and husband Jim, Holly V. Simmons and husband Guy, and son-in-law Frank J. Sanzone. His living legacy also includes four grandsons, Noah J. Sanzone, Ethan M. Sanzone, Gage W. Simmons and Riley W. Simmons, each with whom he created special bonds and cherished memories. As his family relationships evolved over the years, he proudly accepted the title of grandfather to Emma Martin, Camila Perez, Morgan O’Neill and Danielle Sessoms as well.

Jimmy grew up in Ettrick, VA and after graduation from Petersburg High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy for several years as an electrician. His experiences aboard the ship and in foreign countries were always told with such reverence for his time served. After the Navy, Jimmy began his professional career as our “Mr. Telephone Man” by climbing poles, repairing phone lines, operating switchboards and installing 911 systems. He worked for C&P Telephone, Bell Atlantic and eventually retired from Verizon with over 30 years of dedicated service.

In his later years, Jimmy was affectionately known as Popa to those who were lucky enough to call him a grandfather - his self-proclaimed most treasured role in life. Extremely proud of each grandson, he played an active role in their lives and travelled daily to their soccer, football, basketball, baseball and track-and-field events to show unconditional love and support. He also loved spending time bowling with his grandchildren and any other chance he had to entertain with a funny story from his youth or offer thoughtful wisdom from his life experiences.

Jimmy will forever be remembered for his service-oriented life, humble demeanor, animated storytelling, industrious work ethic, mischievous antics and unwavering loyalty to family and friends. Jimmy’s ability to connect with others was a true gift - he was very recognizable around his hometown and never really met a stranger. He was quite frugal with himself and graciously generous with others, intentionally going out of his way to lend a helping hand. Overall though, Jimmy’s most memorable characteristic may be the way he always ended phone conversations or walked away from in-person goodbyes with his signature closing remark of “Buckle Up!” Remembering him say this phrase will forever keep us physically safe and emotionally comforted – two simple words that convey his love for life and his love for each other.

The family will receive friends during a Celebration of Life to be held on Sunday January 19, from 12:30pm to 2:30pm at Brocks BBQ in Chester, VA (11310 Iron Bridge Rd). During this time, Jimmy’s life will be honored by doing what he loved best - gathering for a meal and sharing personal stories with family and friends. Please join the family for this special remembrance to share meaningful memories and reflect on how Jimmy impacted your life. He will be sorely missed and never forgotten!