The Texas Bankers Foundation, the charitable arm of the Texas Bankers Association, has announced the 22 recipients of the 2026 50-Year Banker Awards. Each of the bankers selected is recognized for their exemplary and long-standing service to the banking industry. Launched in 1989 by the Texas Bankers Association, the 50-Year Banker Awards honor those who have devoted a half-century or more of service to the banking industry.
This year’s honorees began their banking careers during a period of significant change in the country and went on to help guide customers, communities and institutions through decades of transformation in Texas banking. Together, their careers reflect the steady leadership, customer commitment and community service that define the profession at its best.
“We are honored to recognize this year’s class of 50-Year bankers and celebrate their extraordinary commitment to our profession,” says Chris Furlow, president and CEO of the Texas Bankers Association. “Their careers represent the kind of integrity, service and perseverance that have long defined Texas banking.”
The recipients of the 2026 50-Year Banker Award:
- Stewart Alcorn, Frost Bank
- Barbara Brandt, Columbus State Bank
- Dana Blackstock Heath, The First State Bank
- Jake Caraway, First National Bank in Granbury
- Jo Karen Finch, First National Bank of East Texas
- Mary Gutierrez, First National Bank of Giddings
- Robert Hulsey, American National Bank of Texas
- Joy Langston, Southwestern National Bank
- Lynn Lebeck, Stellar Bank
- Kim Lee, Stellar Bank
- Beverly Lindsey, First Financial Bank
- Anita Maxey, Citizens State Bank
- Kenneth McGee, First State Bank
- Kirk McLaughlin, Vista Bank
- Sally Myers, Austin Bank
- Tommy Norman, First National Bank of Texas
- Jean Sanders, Texas Bank
- Mike Schnell, Anchor D Bank
- Lorna Willhelm, Community Bank & Trust
- Geri Lynn Wright, Austin Bank
- K.C. Wyatt, Community National Bank & Trust of Texas
The foundation also recognizes Neilson Davis in memoriam. Davis began his banking career on January 13, 1975, at Farmers State Bank in Center, where he spent more than 50 years serving the bank, its customers and the Shelby County community. He passed away on December 11, 2025, while still active in banking.
