By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Brantley Bank & Trust Company is expanding its reach with a new branch set to open at 207 South Forest Avenue in Luverne. The building, which formerly housed Truist Bank, will begin operations with a soft opening on Jan. 6, followed by a grand opening celebration later in the month.

Founded in 1946, Brantley Bank & Trust Company is a community-focused, independent, locally owned institution with a long-standing tradition of relationship-based banking. Business Development and Loan Officer Robert Owen II highlighted the bank’s dedication to the financial well-being of its customers.

“We are all excited for the soft opening of our new Luverne location,” Owen said. He brings a credit union background to the bank and understands the importance of serving the people of Luverne. 

“Everyone here at Brantley Bank has put forth tremendous effort in getting our new location ready for opening,” he said. “Our focus has always been on relationship banking and we tailor our products and services to meet the needs of the community. We want to ensure we’re growing alongside our communities and we are all excited to serve the City of Luverne and the surrounding areas.”

The new location will offer a full suite of banking services, including interest-bearing accounts, mortgage products, commercial loans and unsecured loans. President and CEO Travis Colquett emphasized that the expansion is not about competition but collaboration.

“The new Luverne location highlights Brantley Bank’s ongoing dedication to serving its customers and supporting its communities,” said Colquett. “This will be another full service branch where we will offer a comprehensive range of services, including deposits, mortgage loans, consumer loans, commercial loans, treasury management services and more. Our executive management and the Board of Directors are excited about this milestone for Brantley Bank and invite both current and new customers to visit us starting Jan. 6 at our newest branch.”

The building on South Forest Avenue has been vacant since March. Its revitalization is welcomed by many in the area, including Brantley Bank Deposit Operations Specialist Patricia Smith, who worked for over eight years in the space as a universal banker for Truist.

“I’m so excited to see Brantley Bank moving in,” Smith said. “It’s wonderful to see life back in this building, and I know the community will benefit from their presence.”

Executive Vice President and Senior Loan Officer Stuart Mash Jr. also shared his enthusiasm, reflecting on the personal ties he has to the bank. His grandfather, James Hubert “Goat” Hollis Jr., served as president of Brantley Bank for several decades and left a lasting legacy of innovation and care for the community. 

Mash emphasized the institution’s commitment to offering state-of-the-art banking services while maintaining its community-oriented values.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to grow within Crenshaw County,” said Mash. “It’s an honor to carry forward my grandfather’s legacy and his personalized approach by helping the people of this area achieve their financial goals.”

With locations in Brantley, Luverne, Pike Road and Ramer, Brantley Bank & Trust Company has long been recognized for its deep community roots. According to Mash, this is a key element of their success.

“Our officers, directors, and employees are part of the communities we serve,” Mash said. “You’ll see us in schools, churches and at ballgames. We take pride in offering a state-of-the-art selection of products and services, all while maintaining that hometown feel.”

For more information about Brantley Bank & Trust Company and the services they provide, visit their website at www.brantleybank.com or stop by one of their locations.