Junell was born in El Paso, Texas.
He received an Associate of Arts degree from New Mexico Military Institute in 1967, a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University in 1969.
Upon graduation, he joined the United States Army and served in Germany, achieving the rank of captain.
Upon discharge from active duty he obtained a Master of Science degree from the University of Arkansas in 1974, and a Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University School of Law in 1976.
[1] On January 7, 2003, Junell was nominated by President George W. Bush to a seat on the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas vacated by Hipolito Frank Garcia.