J.D. WILLIAMS

1946-2025

Joseph Daniel Williams, better known as "J.D.", played an instrumental role in organizing and advancing the Communications Workers of America in Texas during the Southwestern Bell era and beyond.

With a passion for justice, Brother Williams became an important cog in the operations of the Texas AFL-CIO through his long service on the Executive Board.

Starting in 1965, Williams worked his way through a variety of positions at CWA Local 6215 before winning election as President, a position he held for more than 15 years. As Vice President of the Dallas AFL-CIO, he built a reputation as an organizer and innovator who believed all members should have the opportunity to excel.

Williams insisted on a strong voice for smaller local unions. He was a key advocate on historically important and intricate telecommunications legislation in the Texas Legislature and Congress, always making certain that the interests of working families were represented. Williams also advocated strongly for raising the status of women and promoting civil rights, helping build diversity at the phone company. His trademark style - a fusion of integrity, calm and wisdom - won him wide respect.

In the realm of community service, Williams's leadership helped establish a Blood Club Account for employees in the Wadley Central Blood Bank and involved labor in efforts to promote adoption of children. Perhaps most importantly, he served as a mentor and confidant to later generations of CWA members, showing how a quiet style can accompany fierce support for working families.