United Communications has always been dedicated to connecting communities. That started by delivering high-quality phone service to suburban and rural areas overlooked by other providers. As technology evolved, so did our mission. Today, we proudly offer high-speed fiber internet to our customers while staying true to the values that have connected us for decades.
Few people embody this commitment as well as James Russell. A United customer for 47 years, James (or “Jim,” as he’s known) has been part of our family since 1977. He was recently named the winner of our Holiday Connections contest, so we sat down to speak about his experience with United.
A Decades-Long Connection: From Phone to Fiber
Jim Russell grew up in Winchester, Tennessee. After serving in the military, he returned to Estill Springs with his wife, Joy, in 1977. When looking for dependable phone service, they discovered United Communications. Over the years, Jim built a successful career as an insurance agent while Joy worked as a dedicated nurse.
United Communications was a constant presence in their lives, providing reliable service that supported their work and home. Following Joy’s passing in 2022, Jim’s son, Scott, and his wife, Ronda, moved in with him full-time.
“Having Scott with me has been such a blessing—a godsend,” Jim shared.
Around the same time, United’s high-speed fiber internet became available in Jim’s neighborhood, offering a way for their family to stay connected. When his grandkids and great-grandkids visit, Jim enjoys watching them use the internet for streaming, gaming, and staying in touch with their friends.
“Whenever my family visits, everyone can bring their devices and it doesn’t cause a problem,” Jim explained.
Today, Jim can keep up to date with local news through streaming services and enjoy a leisurely sitcom every now and then. Jim appreciates United’s honest and transparent service. He bundles his phone and internet for convenience and cost-effectiveness.
“Switching to United’s fiber internet just made sense,” Jim explained. “As a retired salesperson, I appreciate United’s honesty and transparency—no hidden fees. Bundling my phone and internet services was a no-brainer.”
Spreading Holiday Cheer with United’s Connection Campaign
As the winner of the United Communications 2024 Holiday Connections contest, he will receive a $2,500 Marriott gift card that can be used at any Marriott hotel worldwide. When he first learned about his prize, Jim was understandably skeptical.
“Honestly, I didn’t know what to think,” he admitted. “I had to double-check to make sure it wasn’t spam. I had my son call United to confirm it was legitimate.”
Jim hasn’t decided how he’ll use the prize yet. What matters most to him is the gesture itself—a reminder of the commitment United Communications has shown him and his family over nearly five decades.
When asked about his experience as a United customer, Jim offered a simple but heartfelt sentiment: “I’ve been well-satisfied with the service from the very beginning. What more can you ask for?”
United is honored to have been part of Jim’s life for 47 years and proud to continue supporting him and his family through high-speed fiber internet.
To Jim, thank you for trusting United Communications to help you stay connected with those you love. And to anyone looking for a dependable internet provider, we’re here to help you create your own story of connection!