Joel Thomas Bandy, capitalist, promoter, and real estate agent, is one of the leading citizens of Roanoke, and one who has done his share towards the upbuilding of this city. Mr. Bandy was born in Roanoke County, Virginia, in 1860, and is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas L. Bandy. He was educated in the public schools of the county and at Roanoke College and came to Roanoke twenty-five years ago and engaged in the real estate and building business. He is thoroughly posted on real estate values and his judgment, acquired by years of practical experience, is always at the service of the buyer. For a period of ten years Mr. Bandy was engaged in the coal and wood business, but was forced to give it up in order to devote his entire time and attention to his real estate and property interests. He buys and sells real estate, builds houses, and was one of the leading promoters of the Virginia Heights Corporation Company, owners of more than three hundred acres of fine suburban residence property, located west of the city and just across Roanoke River. Mr. Bandy is Treasurer of the Company and resides in a beautiful home erected three years ago on this property.

He is a member of the County School Board from the Big Lick District and takes an active interest in educational affairs.

In 1891 he was married to Miss Nannie P., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. D. Nelms,and they have one daughter, Mary Frances.

Fraternally he is a member of Lakeland Lodge No. 190 A. F. and A. M., Murray Chapter No. 22 Bayard Commandery No. 15 and Acca Temple, A. A. 0. K. M. S., and is a Fourteen Degree Scottish Rite Mason.

Religiously he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mr. Bandy has well appointed offices in Watt, Rettew & Clay Building.

Source:History of Roanoke City - Biographical, pg. 238 by George S. Jack, Edward Boyle Jacobs