Revert Note 2 to 4.2 and find US phone company that doesn't force phone updates?

[AC Question]

AT&T forced update on my Note 2 to kitkat 4.4, but I was fine with 4.2. I don't want to get into the reasons there are plenty. I just want to stay with 4.2.

I know there is a big chance to brick the phone if I try to revert so my questions are:

1. Is there a phone company that doesn't force the updates?
2. If there is a company, could I switch to that company first and then try the downgrade with less risk of bricking it?

Thanks,
Chris