SAG-AFTRA Remembers Terri “TJ” Jones

SAG-AFTRA mourns the loss of former Dallas-Fort Worth Local staff member and Texas talent agent Terri Jones, who passed away Jan. 18 at the age of 66. “TJ,” as she was affectionately known, was an influential force in the Texas entertainment industry over several decades, having worked for many years as a talent agent before joining the AFTRA Dallas office as executive director prior to merger with SAG.

As a Texas native, TJ grew up in the DFW area, attending school in Grand Prairie before studying theater at Texas A&M University. Participation in the “Aggie Players” at A&M created lifelong friendships with many people she would later encounter in the entertainment business. 

Following several years working in the travel industry after school, TJ embarked on a new career in the mid-’80s as a talent agent, initially as the broadcast agent for the Miller/Turpin Agency in Dallas. This was followed by the establishment of her own agency, Talent Express, which operated for nearly a decade in the Texas market. Her heartfelt affection for working actors and their never-ending struggle was always evident, and her caring guidance helped shape the emerging careers of many successful DFW-based performers.

In 2006, TJ was hired as the new executive director of the AFTRA Dallas Local, a position she would hold through merger with SAG in 2012. Her experience with the local talent market, as well as her intimate understanding of the issues facing union performers in Texas made her a natural fit for the position. Post-merger, the relationships developed with other talent agents, production companies and talent across the state aided her as she transitioned to the position of director of outreach and broadcast for the newly formed SAG-AFTRA DFW Local in 2012, which she held until her departure in 2017.

"Working side by side with TJ, one thing was clear: She genuinely loved the members she served and was dedicated to championing their success,” said Linda Dowell, SAG-AFTRA assistant national executive director. “Her passion was evident in the strong bonds she created throughout the industry. She was a nurturer with an amazing spirit that will be greatly missed."

“When I think of TJ, I think of unconditional love,” said Mykle McCoslin, SAG-AFTRA Houston-Austin Local president. “TJ truly loved Texas actors, her furry friends and lifelong family and friends. TJ always saw the good in people and never had anything bad to say about anyone. TJ had a way of making you feel truly seen and heard. She was a therapist, counselor and advisor for us all, but most importantly, she was our true friend. I know she will continue to light the way for us all and that she will be waiting on the other side for us all with open arms.”

“TJ Jones didn’t just help me launch my career, she helped me to navigate life,” said Brent Anderson, SAG-AFTRA Dallas-Fort Worth Local president. “Our friendship has lasted over 37 years, and I can honestly say that TJ’s loving care and guidance has had the most profound impact on me, both personally and professionally. It’s a remarkable thing to be able to affect so many people so deeply, and I know that TJ’s words of assurance, positivity and love will affect myself and countless others for years to come. Rest in peace, dear friend.”

A memorial service for friends and family will be held on Feb. 17 at First Baptist Church Grand Prairie, 950 Mayfield Road, Grand Prairie, TX, 75052. 1-2 p.m. visitation, 2-3 p.m. service.

In lieu of flowers, well-wishers are encouraged to either donate to or adopt a pet from their local animal shelter or rescue group, such as Prairie Paws Adoptions at Grand Prairie Animal Services, (972-237-8575) prairiepawsanimalinfo@gptx.org.