The Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) announced two new additions to the IBAT Wall of Heroes and Legends of Texas Community Banking located at the organization’s headquarters in downtown Austin: James “Jim” Jirasek and Merrill Reynolds. The Wall of Heroes and Legends is reserved for special individuals who have contributed significantly to the strength of community banking in Texas.
JIRASEK’S PLAQUE READS: “James ‘Jim’ Jirasek is a tireless advocate for community banks and everything they represent to our communities, local businesses, the State of Texas and our national economy. Over the course of two-plus decades, he has never missed an opportunity to tell the community banking story to anyone in Washington, D.C., who would listen. Jim is a lifelong community banker. As a kid, when Jim’s father asked what he might want to do for a career, he expressed admiration for the local banker, Mr. Pfluger, in his hometown of Bishop, Texas. He knew being a banker was what he wanted to do with his life. After ‘tours of duty’ at Austin National Bank and Kleberg Bank, Jim found his permanent home as a banker at City National Bank of Taylor, where he has served since 1986. Jim is a quiet servant of his family, his community and his industry. He is a hero and legend of Texas community banking. Husband, father, coach, community banker, IBAT Leadership Division director, Rotary Club of Taylor president, Taylor Chamber of Commerce director.”
REYNOLD’S PLAQUE READS: Merrill J. Reynolds Jr. is a seasoned banking professional with more than 40 years of experience in the financial services industry. A graduate of Southern Methodist University and the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking, he began his career as a bank examiner with the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, where he developed a strong foundation in regulatory oversight and financial analysis. Over the years, Merrill held key leadership roles in both community banks and multi-bank holding companies, earning a reputation for his strategic thinking, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to sound lending practices.
In 1999, Merrill launched Reynolds Williams Group with a clear mission: to provide thoughtful, customized consulting services to financial institutions across the country. Beyond his consulting work, Merrill is a passionate educator and advocate for professional development in banking. He serves on the faculty of the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking and is a frequent speaker at national conferences, including the Assembly for Bank Directors. He also played a key role in developing the only accredited certification program for loan review professionals. Merrill’s approach to banking and leadership is grounded in integrity, collaboration, and a genuine desire to help others succeed. As he often says: “Banking isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people, trust, and building relationships that stand the test of time.” His legacy continues through the professionals he’s mentored, the institutions he’s strengthened, and the values he’s instilled in every aspect of his work.
Click here to view all honorees on the IBAT Wall of Heroes and Legends of Texas Community Banking.
